Strengthening transport security through modernization of customs and transport procedures focus of the OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan

Best practices on modernization of customs and transport procedures as a tool to improve transport management and transport security, especially during emergency situations, were discussed at an OSCE-organized online seminar on 7 and 8 September 2021. Representatives of the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Affairs, State Customs Service, State transport agencies and other key ministries and government bodies participated in the event.

The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat and facilitated by two international experts from Georgia and the Russian Federation.  Best practices in the application of digital technologies and intelligent transport systems, harmonization of transport and transit procedures and ensuring sustainable and secure operation of logistic chains during the pandemic period were presented. The experts elaborated on their international experience in the effective use of a ‘single window’ mechanism as a tool for more efficient transport and logistics operations.

“Facilitating cross-border transport is a crucial prerequisite for economic development and security. Moreover, ensuring efficient transport networks, and promoting good governance at border crossing points are vital for states to overcome issues, such as lack of access to the sea and dependence on transit services of neighboring countries,” said William Leaf, Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat has been co-operating with the Government of Turkmenistan in transport, trade and other related sectors since 2008 through a number of training events.