Connectivity
In order to enhance regional security and stability, the OSCE works on creating the basis of economic connectivity between the 57 participating States, through dialogue on trade and transport.
Mandate
Over the years the OSCE has developed the following important decisions and declarations, showing the commitment of participating States in enhancing connectivity:
- OSCE Maastricht Strategy Document for the Economic and Environmental Dimension, 2003 Brussels
- Ministerial Council Decision on Future Transport Dialogue in the OSCE, 2006
- Vilnius Ministerial Council Decision on Strengthening Transport Dialogue in the OSCE, 2011
- 2016 MC Decision No. 4/16 on Strengthening Good Governance and Promoting Connectivity, Hamburg, 9 December 2016
In 2016 at the Hamburg Ministerial Council, OSCE participating States underlined that promoting connectivity through trade and transport facilitation is an important part of their economic co-operation. Reaffirming previous commitments related to transportation and trade facilitation, they tasked the OSCE executive structures to support the simplification, harmonization, and standardization of rules and regulations pertaining to trade to enhance connectivity.
Role of the OSCE
The OCEEA is actively involved in supporting participating States in enhancing connectivity, particularly in Central Asia, the Caspian Sea Region, and Eastern Europe. To this end, the OCEEA has been organizing workshops and training courses on cross-border e-commerce, co-ordination of transit, and paperless trade.
The OCEEA works to foster greater bilateral and regional co-operation between customs and border agencies of participating States by promoting the exchange of best practices on data sharing and co-ordinated management of borders.
The OCEEA provides tools and guidance for policy makers and practitioners on trade and transport facilitation such as through the OSCE Handbook of Best Practices at Border Crossing and the OSCE- UNECE publication on Inland Transport Security Forum Proceedings.
The OCEEA implements its connectivity activities in co-operation with OSCE Field Operations and many other partners, such as: the World Customs Organization, the UN Economic Commission for Europe, the UN Conference for Trade and Development, the UN Commission on International Trade Law, the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, the International Plant Protection Convention, the European Commission, the International Trade Centre, the World Trade Organization, and the World Bank/International Finance Corporation.