Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Discuss Transport and Logistics Links

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Representatives of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan discussed measures to develop transport and logistics cooperation and improve conditions for carriers.

The meeting with Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Uzbekistan Shadurdy Meredov was held on 13 August with the participation of representatives of Uzbekistan’s transport and logistics sector.

The talks were attended by Bekzod Kholmatov, director of the Centre for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Association of International Road Carriers of Uzbekistan, national carriers and freight forwarding companies.

One of the main topics was simplifying procedures for drivers and carriers. In particular, the sides discussed the possibility of introducing electronic visas for drivers, streamlining payments and improving procedures at the Farab-Alat border crossing.

Participants also discussed measures to reduce queues and waiting times at the border.

Particular attention was paid to the development of transport corridors. Proposals included establishing a separate corridor for perishable goods, building a second bridge in the neutral zone and increasing road and rail freight volumes through the port of Turkmenbashi.

The sides also considered revising weight and dimensional restrictions and resuming direct air links between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

The Turkmen side expressed readiness to consider the proposals and submit them to the relevant government agencies.

Following the meeting, the sides agreed to continue cooperation to further develop transport and logistics links and create more favourable conditions for carriers from the two countries.