IRU laid out key actions to more efficiently and securely manage the growing volume of goods transiting through the Turkic region at the Organization of Turkic States’ conference in Geneva.
Amid the geopolitical developments redefining trade routes, including the war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East, Turkic states now have an even greater role to play in east-west connectivity. Investment in soft solutions is needed to manage the ever-increasing volume of goods.
This was IRU’s central message at the Organization of Turkic States’ (OTS’) conference, titled "The OTS as an Emerging Actor for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals", at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
IRU Director of TIR and Transit Tatiana Rey-Bellet said, “The routes connecting Turkic states among themselves, as well as China with Europe, have huge potential which can be further developed, provided that our strategic focus shifts towards harmonised trade and transit procedures, services and tools.”
“The TIR system brings much needed facilitation based on security. Digitalisation further elevates these advantages. This is precisely why eTIR needs to be implemented without delay. And it should be accompanied by e-CMR, e-visas and e-permits,” she added.
IRU also underlined the pivotal role of OTS in streamlining visa procedures for professional drivers and advancing regional and global trade.
“Professional truck drivers should be recognised as essential workers who deserve priority visa procedures. We greatly value the important role of the OTS in optimising and digitalising cross-border operations,” concluded Tatiana Rey-Bellet.
The event brought together heads and representatives from international organisations, UN member state missions, prominent experts and academics, as well as the private sector.
