Supporting the work of UN-OHRLLS, Umberto de Pretto highlighted that tried-and-test UN instruments that facilitate trade and transport, such as the TIR system and its IT toolset, are essential for tackling soft obstacles and implementing the Vienna Programme of Action, which targets the challenges faced by LLDCs.
IRU’s Secretary General further noted that despite all the known benefits of TIR, no new LLDCs have joined the TIR convention since the adoption of the Vienna declaration over 10 years ago.
IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto said, “If landlocked developing countries are serious about achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and fostering trade, environmental protection and social equity, it is time for action and to implement the UN TIR Convention.”
Umberto de Pretto also pointed out that the third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in 2024 as well as this September’s regional IRU event in Uzbekistan are opportunities to advance road transport in LLDCs.
UN-OHRLLS clearly recognised commercial road transport’s irreplaceable role in connecting companies and communities to global markets. Road transport, backed by TIR, can transform landlocked countries into landlinked countries.
What is TIR?
TIR is the only global transit system. It enables goods to be shipped from a country of origin, through transit countries, to a country of destination, via a secure, multilateral, multimodal and mutually recognised system. TIR also provides a financial guarantee, managed by IRU, for the payment of suspended duties and taxes.
