ASHGABAT: Turkmenistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov and Secretary General of the International Road Transport Union (IRU) Umberto de Pretto have discussed enhancing regional connectivity through multimodal transit corridors and international logistics hubs, with a focus on digitalizing the transport industry, during their meeting in Ashgabat. The parties highlighted the success of their existing cooperation and outlined future steps to further integrate and improve transport links between Turkmenistan and its neighboring countries. They discussed the role of the UN platform in these efforts and shared insights on the activities of the Group of Friends of Sustainable Transport (GFST), which Turkmenistan initiated. Umberto de Pretto praised Turkmenistan's dedication to enhancing regional transport infrastructure and its proactive approach to joining international agreements. The discussion also covered capacity building, legal frameworks for cooperation, and the upcoming international confere nce on transport scheduled for November in Ashgabat, coinciding with World Sustainable Transport Day. Additionally, the meeting addressed Turkmenistan's sustainable transport initiatives, which were highlighted in the country's Priority Positions at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly. The Group of Friends of Sustainable Transport (GFST), established on July 6, 2022, by the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN, functions as an informal platform for fostering a broad multilateral dialogue. Its goal is to promote safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems, supporting sustainable economic growth, improving social welfare, and enhancing international cooperation and trade among countries. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) is a global organization dedicated to advancing road transport by fostering international cooperation and promoting sustainable practices. Established in 1948, the IRU works with governments, transport operators, and industry stakeholders to enha nce the efficiency and safety of road transport. The organization supports the development of multimodal transport solutions, advocates for regulatory improvements, and facilitates the digitalization of the transport industry. Through its initiatives, the IRU aims to strengthen global connectivity, support economic development, and address environmental challenges in the road transport sector. Source: Trend News Agency