Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan discussed electronic visa processing for drivers, payment optimization and improvements to procedures at the Farap-Alat border crossing, as well as measures to reduce queues and waiting times, Uzbekistan’s Transport Ministry reported Thursday.
The meeting was held August 13 with Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Uzbekistan Shadurdy Meredov and representatives of Uzbekistan’s transport and logistics sector. Participants included Bekzod Kholmatov, Director of the Center for Transport and Logistics Development Studies, officials from the Foreign Ministry and the Association of International Road Carriers of Uzbekistan, as well as executives from national carriers and transport and forwarding companies.
The sides discussed improving procedures at the Farap-Alat crossing and measures to reduce queues and waiting times. Proposals included establishing a separate corridor for perishable goods and building a second bridge in the neutral zone.
They also discussed increasing road and rail freight through the port of Turkmenbashi and reviewing weight and size restrictions.
The Turkmen side expressed readiness to consider the proposals and convey them to the relevant state agencies. The sides agreed to continue cooperation to further develop transport and logistics ties and create more favorable conditions for carriers.
