NEW SILK WAY Forum Discussed the Development of the Middle Corridor and Increased Efficiency of Freight Transportation

Ministers of transport and representatives of international organizations held discussions on the directions for developing international transport corridors, increasing logistics efficiency, and implementing digital solutions.

Synchronization of Actions, Institutionalization, and Digitalization

The meeting of delegation heads, titled 'Synchronization of Actions, Institutionalization, and Digitalization,' took place within the framework of the 8th International Business Forum 'New Silk Road.' Participants included heads of transport departments, diplomatic corps representatives, and international organizations.

The main topics of discussion were the coordination of infrastructure development plans, reducing obstacles at state borders, and digitizing transport processes.

The Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Ilhom Makhamov, emphasized that creating an effective transport system is impossible within the boundaries of a single country. He noted that increasing the region's competitiveness requires eliminating administrative barriers and unifying procedures for international transport.

Makhamov stated: 'Our common priority is to create truly seamless transit corridors by removing bureaucratic obstacles to the movement of goods. Only by harmonizing customs and transit procedures and integrating supply chains can we turn our region into a reliable and competitive bridge between global markets.'

After the meeting concluded, participants exchanged views on cooperation priorities in the transport sector and practical steps for the further development of international transport services. Discussions also focused on coordinating approaches and finding joint solutions to strengthen transport and logistics links between states.

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan held a meeting with a delegation of Latvian entrepreneurs who arrived in the country as part of a business mission.

These negotiations took place ahead of the Uzbek-Latvian business forum, scheduled for October 8 in Tashkent, according to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan. The Latvian delegation included representatives from the transport and logistics, agriculture, investment, chemical industry, modern technologies, certification, and green energy sectors.

One of the central topics of discussion was the creation of an Uzbek-Latvian logistics hub based in the Port of Riga. The parties also examined opportunities for combining exporters and importers from both countries, as well as the potential for joint entry into third-country markets.

Agricultural projects occupied another significant part of the discussions. Participants studied prospects for cooperation in the field of agricultural product processing, growing and freezing fruits and berries, greenhouse construction, as well as biogas and organic fertilizer production.

Significant attention was paid to the issue of certification. The Latvian side presented opportunities for partnership with a local testing and certification center that has over one hundred and fifteen years of experience. Potential cooperation could include establishing a joint venture or opening a branch.

Entrepreneurs from Latvia were also presented with opportunities to enter the European market within the SPS+ system. Furthermore, the parties discussed prospects for interaction in the fields of startups, venture investments, and information technology.

Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to hold an online conference involving Uzbek entrepreneurs to discuss certification issues. The parties also agreed to maintain regular dialogue on priority areas of cooperation. The next stage of bilateral business interaction will be the business forum to be held in Tashkent on October 8.