Leaders from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan stress digitalization, cooperation, and trade facilitation to strengthen East–West connectivity.
The 11th meeting of the heads of customs administrations of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) took place in Turkestan from September 6–8, focusing on turning the Middle Corridor into a reliable and competitive trade route linking Asia and Europe.
Delegations from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan participated, while Hungary, Georgia, and Turkmenistan attended as observers.
Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee Chairman Zhandos Duisembiev underscored that digital innovation, simplified customs procedures, and mutual trust are crucial for unlocking the corridor’s full potential. He pointed to initiatives such as the Single Window system, Information Exchange standards, and the Institute of Authorized Economic Operators as concrete steps to accelerate trade and reinforce supply chain resilience.
Participants also highlighted national approaches, including Kazakhstan’s Keden digital infrastructure and Türkiye’s Caravanserai initiative under the Silk Road framework. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint declaration on Annex 11 of the TIR Convention and memoranda covering risk management and customs laboratory cooperation.
The gathering closed with a shared commitment to modernize customs systems, reinforcing the Middle Corridor as a secure, efficient, and sustainable bridge between East and West.
