Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and the European Union discussed priority reforms for the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TITR) at a seminar in Tashkent on 22 September, with representatives of Uzbekistan’s private sector taking part.
The event was organized by the European Union jointly with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as part of the TITR Coordination Platform.
The discussion was attended by Bekzod Kholmatov, director of the Center for Transport and Logistics Development Studies under the Ministry of Transport, EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar, and Neil McCain, IFC Regional Manager for Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
Kholmatov noted the growing role of the TITR in Uzbekistan’s freight turnover with the European Union. According to him, the corridor’s share has increased from 12% to 28% over the past five years. At the same time, barriers remain along the route that require practical solutions. The Ministry of Transport representative emphasized the importance of direct dialogue with businesses to identify the necessary measures.
Klaar highlighted the strategic importance of the TITR within the Global Gateway initiative and reaffirmed the European Union’s support for developing infrastructure and “soft” connectivity.
McCain, in turn, stressed that market participants need more than infrastructure capacity. According to him, effective coordination, predictable transportation and competitive logistics services are also essential.
During thematic working groups, representatives of businesses and other stakeholders examined the main barriers remaining along the TITR. Following the discussions, participants developed practical proposals to address the barriers and implement the necessary reforms.
