SCO Transport Corridor Through Osh Gains Momentum; Growth in Freight Traffic Noted

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – The Kyrgyz Ministry of Transport hosted the 13th meeting of transport ministers from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states, underscoring the growing significance of regional transport cooperation. Presided over by Kyrgyzstan's Transport and Communications Minister, Talantbek Soltobayev, the gathering focused on advancing collaborative efforts in the vital transport sector.

Minister Soltobayev emphasized the dynamic development of SCO cooperation, both bilaterally and multilaterally, noting its increased importance as the organization approaches its 25th anniversary. He highlighted the 2014 agreement on favorable conditions for international road transport and the successful development of the Tashkent-Andijan-Osh-Irkeshtam-Kashgar transport corridor, which has seen a notable increase in cargo traffic. This corridor, a key artery connecting Central Asia with China, is a testament to the tangible benefits of SCO collaboration.

“

cooperation within the SCO is developing in both bilateral and multilateral formats, and stressed the importance of strengthening ties against the backdrop of the organization's 25th anniversary.

A significant proposal from the Kyrgyz side was the acceleration of transport digitalization, particularly the introduction of electronic multilateral permits for cargo transportation along SCO routes. The initiative to establish a dedicated technical working group and sign a memorandum of understanding in this area signals a commitment to modernizing logistics and streamlining cross-border movement of goods. This move aligns with global trends toward digital trade facilitation and promises to reduce transit times and costs for businesses operating within the region.

The meeting concluded with the signing of a protocol reflecting the agreed-upon positions on transport interaction, alongside a memorandum of understanding on the digitalization of international transport permits. The participants unanimously recognized that enhanced transport integration within the SCO framework is crucial for bolstering trade, economic, and humanitarian connections among member nations. From a Kyrgyz perspective, strengthening these transport links is not just about economic growth; it's about solidifying Kyrgyzstan's role as a key transit hub in Central Asia and fostering deeper regional stability and prosperity.

“

The development of transport integration within the SCO plays a key role in strengthening trade, economic, and humanitarian ties between countries.