Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The 13th Meeting of Transport Ministers of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) was held in Tehran, where participants addressed current challenges and prospects for developing efficient, integrated, and sustainable transport systems across the region.

The discussions focused on enhancing multimodal transport corridors, promoting digital transformation in the transport sector, simplifying cross-border trade and transit, and implementing regional agreements and programs.

Particular emphasis was placed on the proposed concept for establishing an ECO Digital Transport and Customs Office. Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport, Ilkhom Makhkamov, delivered a speech presenting the initiatives of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, originally voiced at the ECO Summit, aimed at strengthening transport and logistics connectivity. Makhkamov outlined the progress made by Uzbekistan in implementing these proposals.

At the 16th ECO Summit, held in Tashkent in November 2023, President Mirziyoyev proposed the creation of a digital ECO Transport and Customs Office in Uzbekistan’s capital. The initiative is intended to promote the widespread adoption of modern systems to enhance the integration of transport and communication networks among member states. To advance this idea, Ilkhom Makhkamov suggested developing mechanisms for digitalization and mutual recognition of freight and customs documents, and proposed forming a working group comprising representatives of transport and customs authorities.

Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation among ECO countries, stressing the need for coordinated actions and investments to modernize transport infrastructure, harmonize transport policies, and encourage greater private sector involvement in regional projects.

The key outcome of the meeting was the unanimous adoption of the Tehran Declaration, which outlines strategic priorities and a collective roadmap for enhancing regional transport connectivity. The declaration includes Uzbekistan’s proposals, notably the establishment of the Digital Transport and Customs Office and the designation of Samarkand Airport as an official ECO aviation hub.