TRACECA initiatives for the development of regional transport connectivity: in the focus of discussions on the development of the Central Asia region

The main objectives of the Conference were to identify the most pressing challenges to the development of Central Asia and search for their appropriate solutions, to explore regional cooperation between multilateral development banks and the possibilities of joint projects, including in capital markets, technical assistance and analytics.

The participants of the Conference considered the prospects for cooperation in the implementation of transport infrastructure development projects and initiatives that are in the focus of attention of the Central Asian countries, the important role of corridors in the context of international trade development in the region, potential logistical solutions to eliminate bottlenecks hindering the development of transport.

          During the discussions on the transport network and connectivity in Central Asia, the Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA, Mr. Asset Assavbayev, informed the conference participants about the prospects for the development of transport connectivity in Europe-South Caucasus-Central Asia-China direction, as well as about the work and projects of the PS IGC TRACECA to eliminate infrastructure constraints and develop soft infrastructure. "Assistance is required in developing new approaches to cargo transportation. So, in 2023, as part of the pilot cargo transportation by semi-trailers with tractors registered in various countries, we determined that this type of transportation reduces the transportation costs of carriers, since a driver on the vessel, visas, as well as some permits are not required. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to improving connectivity, implement technical assistance projects and allocate grants for this type of work," said Mr. A. Assavbayev.

“The Permanent Secretariat developed a concept for a new vessel with a larger capacity. According to our calculations, the cost of transportation can be reduced almost twice,” the Secretary General added.

Among the mentioned directions, Mr. A. Assavbayev emphasized the work of the PS IGC TRACECA on the introduction of digital solutions at the international level through the implementation of the Digital Concept adopted by the countries in 2021 with the prospect of switching to the use of electronic transport documents, and the implementation of pilot projects, in particular on the use of CIM/SMGS consignment note and step-by-step transition to its electronic analogue.  

For reference:

• The event provided a platform for constructive dialogue to representatives of international organizations and structures on development and social issues, as well as leaders and representatives of the transport industry, the economic sector and international financial institutions of the Eurasian region and beyond.
  
  
• The Conference covered 3 sessions dedicated to these topics:

- "Partnerships in Central Asia: Addressing Global Challenges Through Local Lenses”
- "Transport Connectivity in Central Asia: the MDB Approach",
- "Scaling-up DFIs climate funding and co-financing streams in Central Asia: challenges and opportunities".