OREANDA-NEWS. Some 300 sector leaders from over 15 countries shared their knowledge, experience and expertise on pressing economic issues, recent TIR developments and future trade and transport needs, at the 16th International Road Transport Conference held jointly by IRU and the Association of International Road Carriers of Ukraine (AsMAP UA).

A main outcome of the conference included a resolution calling on Eurasian Governments to proactively implement the UN Resolution on the Role of Transport and Transit Corridors and key UN trade and transport facilitation instruments, notably the TIR System, to boost sustainable development by supporting freedom of transit across Eurasia. The resolution was unanimously adopted by the Eurasian business community, road transport competent authorities and international organisations.

Further action points include increasing the scope of multilateral permit systems, promoting fair competition and transparent access to the market, reducing vehicle downtime at national border crossings, creating and developing high-quality roadside infrastructure, and promoting relevant training programmes and IRU Academy standards recognised by the European Conference of Ministers of Transport (ECMT) Quality Charter as a key benchmark.

Speaking at the conference, IRU Secretary General, Umberto de Pretto, said that, “Today’s road transport industry faces many challenges and we need to effectively address them. But, more importantly, we need to grasp the many opportunities brought about by ever changing and increasing market demand. Only by working together for a better future, in public-private partnership, will road transport be able to drive progress, prosperity and, ultimately, peace.”