OTIF: Why the Middle Corridor through Turkmenistan is Crucial
On November 26th, the first day of the conference and exhibition "International Transport and Transit Corridors: Interconnectivity and Development - 2024" took place in Ashgabat. The event featured a video address by Wolfgang Küpper, Secretary-General of the Intergovernmental Organization for International Carriage by Rail (OTIF).
In his address, he highlighted the historical significance of OTIF, which has been in existence for 130 years, and its contribution to establishing the legal and technical foundations for international rail transport. Today, the organization unites 51 countries, providing uniform rules for freight transportation, hazardous materials transportation, and technical compatibility.
The Role of Turkmenistan and the Middle Corridor
Küpper paid particular attention to the development of the Eurasian region's transport potential, emphasizing the importance of the Middle Corridor passing through Turkmenistan. This route is crucial as a faster alternative to sea transport and a more cost-effective replacement for air transport.
"Turkmenistan plays a significant role in strengthening intercontinental connectivity, making the Middle Corridor one of the most important directions in the development of Eurasian freight transportation," the Secretary-General noted.
Rail Transport - The Key to Sustainable Development
Wolfgang Küpper emphasized that railways can become the foundation of the 21st-century transport system due to their environmental friendliness and economic efficiency. He linked the development of rail transport with modern megatrends such as urbanization, digitalization, and climate goals.
"International rail transport should become the basis of a sustainable multimodal transport system, and railways should be the key to achieving climate goals," Küpper stated.
The Secretary-General emphasized the need for close cooperation to create synergy in programs, eliminate duplication of efforts, and effectively utilize resources.
Küpper wished the conference in Ashgabat success, expressing confidence that rail transport will continue to be a crucial tool for sustainable development and economic integration.
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