Representatives of Uzbekistan’s transport and logistics sector discussed measures to develop freight transport between the two countries with Shadurdy Meredov, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan. The meeting took place in Tashkent, according to the news agency Orient.

The discussion was attended by representatives of the Centre for Transport Studies, the Uzbek Foreign Affairs Ministry, the Association of International Road Hauliers and major freight forwarding companies.

The Uzbek side proposed simplifying transport procedures and reducing border crossing times. In particular, the discussion centred on electronic visa processing for drivers, reducing associated fees and speeding up procedures at the ‘Farab–Alat’ border crossing.

It was also proposed to establish a ‘green corridor’ for lorries carrying perishable goods and to build a second bridge on the neutral strip.

The parties considered revising weight and size restrictions, expanding the use of the Turkmenbashi Seaport’s infrastructure for road and rail transport, and resuming direct scheduled air services.

The Embassy of Turkmenistan expressed its readiness to forward the Uzbek side’s proposals to the relevant state authorities for further consideration and the development of joint solutions.