The Permanent Secretariat of the IGC TRACECA and representatives of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program, implemented by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), held a working meeting dedicated to strengthening partnership in the field of transport and logistics. The dialogue was a continuation of the technical consultations held on April 4, 2025 in Baku as part of the discussion of the CAREC 2 corridor development strategy.
During the talks, the parties considered the prospects for deepening cooperation in key areas – increasing the efficiency of transport corridors, digitalization of logistics processes and sustainable economic development of the region. CAREC representatives shared their experience in implementing projects to modernize infrastructure, introduce the CATS transit system, as well as developing CITA 2030 strategies aimed at strengthening trade, transport and energy within the framework of the CAREC 2030 strategy.
TRACECA Secretary General Asset Asavbayev presented the current initiatives of the Secretariat, including the development of multimodal transportation, the introduction of digital tools for interaction between countries, and the simplification of border procedures. The key projects included: a pilot project to introduce the e-CIM/SMGS electronic consignment note, development of the Action Plan for the TRACECA Strategy for 2027–2036, digital permits, the TRACECA Fund and the Agreement on the Single Transit Permit.
The meeting participants paid special attention to the synergies between the TRACECA and CAREC initiatives – aligning priorities, coordinating technical assistance and sharing best practices in flow management. Both sides emphasized the importance of an integrated approach covering both physical and institutional infrastructure.
Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their commitment to continue constructive dialogue and expand cooperation to create a more sustainable and efficient transport system in the region.