The European Union and Turkmenistan held a high-level event to launch the Coordinating Platform for the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, reports Orient.tm.
The event was attended by representatives of the European Union, countries along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, as well as Turkey and international financial institutions.
The main role of the Coordinating Platform will be to promote the corridor and coordinate efforts to implement priority projects in the field of hard and soft infrastructure in Central Asia. It will also coordinate investments and activities in the South Caucasus and Turkey, which are important for enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring smooth connectivity through the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, according to a press release from the EU delegation in Ashgabat.
During the discussions, the need and commitment to comprehensive investments in infrastructure and regulatory reforms were emphasized, creating a favorable environment to support cargo flows, expand trade, and promote economic growth in Central Asia and beyond. The participants stressed the necessity of joint actions and expanded cooperation to achieve these goals.
The European Union was represented by EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen, EU Special Representative for Central Asia Terhi Hakala, and EU ambassadors.
The European Commission confirmed its intentions to launch a regional transport program in 2025 to support the preparation of priority transport infrastructure projects in Central Asia with feasibility studies and provide technical assistance in areas such as standard harmonization, digitalization, and interoperability. The program will also offer significant support services for the operation of the Coordinating Platform.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 4, 2024