CIS Countries Discuss Transport Corridors at Meeting in Astana

The international business forum NEW SILK WAY discussed the prospects for developing the Middle Corridor, as well as issues related to increasing the efficiency of freight transportation and expanding regional transport links.

A panel session was held within the framework of the forum dedicated to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) and measures aimed at increasing its transit potential. Participants in the discussion included representatives of the transport authorities of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, as well as employees of the World Bank and members of the business community.

Uzbekistan was represented by Bekzod Kholmatov, Director of the Center for Research on Transport and Logistics Development under the Ministry of Transport. Kazakhstan was represented by Nurzhan Kelbuganov, Chairman of the Committee for Railway and Water Transport of the Ministry of Transport. Andrey Mikhnev, Director of the World Bank for Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, also took part in the discussion.

The session, organized by the World Bank, focused on improving the quality of logistics and transport services, simplifying border procedures, promoting international trade, and strengthening transport hubs between the countries of the region. Participants were presented with a World Bank report on the development of trade logistics along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor.

Special attention was paid to the digitalization of freight transportation, the implementation of electronic document management, and the integration of information systems used by railway administrations. These steps are viewed as ways to increase the effectiveness of international cargo operations.

Participants noted that the further advancement of the Middle Corridor requires not only infrastructure expansion but also improvement in the reliability, regularity, and competitiveness of the transport services provided.

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.