Turkmenistan is entering a new phase of its partnership with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). At a Cabinet of Ministers meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov presented a package of proposals to expand cooperation with this UN organization, aimed at strengthening the country's status as a key transport hub in the Caspian Sea.

Taking an active position in transport diplomacy, Turkmenistan is a party to 14 IMO conventions. These new initiatives aim to bring national legislation into full compliance with the most modern global shipping standards.

One of the key practical steps will be the creation of a special interdepartmental working group. Its priority task is to prepare for Turkmenistan's accession to the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic.

This decision is of strategic importance for business and logistics, as it relates to the simplification of formalities (reducing bureaucratic procedures for ships entering and leaving ports, minimizing vessel downtime, which directly impacts the efficiency of the Lapis Lazuli corridor and the Caspian-Black Sea routes). An important aspect is digitalization and the implementation of international standards for electronic data exchange.

The joint work plan for the coming year includes visits by IMO leadership to Turkmenistan for direct talks; a series of seminars and conferences where global experts will share their experiences in maritime safety and marine environmental protection; and advanced training for national maritime personnel in accordance with convention standards.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, approving the maritime diplomacy proposals presented by Deputy Prime Minister Rashid Meredov at a government meeting on Friday, March 13, emphasized that systematic interaction with the IMO is essential for the effective operation of the country's seaport facilities and ensuring security in the Caspian Sea.