The International Conference on "Transportation Highways of the SCO Member States, also “North-South” and “East-West” Corridors Base for Mutual and Joint Development" was hosted by the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan in an online format on 23 December 2022. High officials from SCO member states and international organizations, including the OTS, TRACECA, ECO, BSEC, and UN ESCAP, participated in the conference.
H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, the Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States, addressed the conference with a video message and emphasized the importance of transport corridors in light of recent geopolitical changes in the Euroasian region and the role of regional organizations in enhancing and diversifying transport routes and ensuring the global supply chain.
Ambassador Omuraliev also shared with the participants the current developments within the OTS in advancing transport cooperation between its member and observer states through various mechanisms in place to promote practical cooperation among them. He highlighted the efforts being taken by the OTS to introduce digital tools in transport and transit procedures, including the introduction of digital TIR, e-Permit, and eCMR, among others.
The Secretary General also emphasized the important role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as an authoritative and influential platform among countries from across vast regions, promoting development and helping maintain peace and overcome the growing threats and challenges in Eurasia.