The press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that on 9 November four-side meeting of delegations of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran and Oman on discussion of formation of transport-communication corridor between states of Central Asia and Persian Gulf.

Initiative on creation of transport-communication corridor, lining the countries of Central Asia and Persian Gulf, announced by the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov during October visit to Ashgabat, was supported by the Turkmen President. This initiative was also supported by leaders of Iran and Oman.

During the meeting, it was noted that implementation of the idea will become effective base for development of regional trade-economic processes in the future. The sides discussed cooperation in trade and rendering transit services.

The heads of delegations were unanimous that it is necessary joint investments in development of transit routes, decrease transport expenses, including through introduction of competitive and acceptable tariffs.

The Uzbek side expressed gratitude to meeting’s participants for support of the Uzbek President’s initiative on formation of international transport-communication corridor Central Asia – Persian Gulf.

At the same time, the members of the delegation were informed on preconditions, which served as catalyst to this initiative and its main goals.

It was stated that the countries are searching for alternative routes and interested in supply of cargo through low cost transit corridors in condition of economic and financial recession, as well as fast developments in the world and the region.

In relation to concept of implementation of the initiative, participants underlined necessity to sign framework agreement in Ashgabat in near future. The agreement should envisage creation of joint commission, including representatives of competitive bodies, to develop detail proposals and prepare agreements, regulating all aspects of forming and functioning of transport corridor.

Participants called for strengthening economic cooperation for development and progress of each country and deemed it expedient to simplify trade between the sides.