Uzbekistan is implementing several practical measures to develop e-permit

The objective of the meeting was the practical implementation of TRACECA initiatives and projects.

As part of the Agenda, the Secretary General expressed interest in Uzbekistan’s position on the draft Agreement on a Single Transit Permit of TRACECA and its willingness to start internal approval procedures, as well as interest in joining the TRACECA Multilateral Permits System.

In his turn, the NS of Uzbekistan informed about readiness to consider the issue of Uzbekistan's accession to the STP and starting the accession process this year.

During the discussions, the meeting participants recognized the need to take step-by-step measures for the transition to electronic format. «The Permanent Secretariat has prepared an action plan to harmonize the processes of transition to the electronic permit system and has also developed a solution for the digitalization of multilateral permits. In addition, we are also pleased that Uzbekistan is among the countries actively promoting the transition of permits to electronic format, which in turn will serve as an example for other countries», - the Secretary General noted.

In addition, Mr. Kholmatov informed the Secretary General about the practice of using electronic permit documents jointly with Türkiye and the ongoing work on the transition to electronic permit documents with Azerbaijan. «Uzbekistan is exchanging electronic permits with Türkiye, at the same time, the process of practical transition to an electronic format with Azerbaijan is being completed. In addition, there are signed memorandums within the framework of which we are introducing this system. Based on this system, it is possible to start work on the digitalization of the TRACECA corridor. In its turn, it will allow to conduct automatic accounting of all transportation», - the National Secretary stressed.

The Secretary General drew the attention of the National Secretary to work carried out by the Secretariat on the transition to e-CIM/SMGS and the planned work on the application of the electronic permit system along the TRACECA corridor routes. Moreover, in the near future, it is planned to hold an event on problematic issues regarding visas, permits, and transit fees faced by carriers along the route.

In his turn, the National Secretary noted the expediency of Uzbekistan acceding to the European Conference of Ministries of Transport (ECMT) system to improve the smooth transport process to European countries. Considering the relationship between TRACECA and the global organizations, this will be a favorable opportunity to assist countries willing to accede.

Following the meeting, Mr. Kholmatov assured the Secretary General of his efforts to promote TRACECA initiatives in Uzbekistan.