Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 11 March, the "SIPA Political Dialogue on Sustainable and Reliable Transport Connectivity in Central Asia" commenced in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

The event was organized by the International Transport Forum and the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan. Among the participants was Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport, Ilkhomjon Abdugafarov.

During the meeting, discussions will focus on the findings of a regional study dedicated to the development of freight transport infrastructure in Central Asian countries as part of the SIPA program. In addition, a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the transport and logistics sector will be presented.

In his speech at the forum, Ilkhomjon Abdugafarov emphasized Uzbekistan’s readiness to actively engage in further discussions and implement the results and recommendations in its transport policy.

"We are determined to continue joint research in the transport sector to identify priority areas for cooperation. Special attention will be given to improving connectivity, enhancing environmental sustainability, and ensuring the safety of freight transportation," he stated.

Considering the shared interests of the region’s countries, the Deputy Minister proposed strengthening transport and logistics integration, standardizing technical standards and regulatory requirements, and more actively introducing digital technologies in customs procedures. He also highlighted the need to create favorable conditions for the expedited delivery of goods via container block trains and to introduce preferential tariffs, which would increase the efficiency of transport operations.