Turkic region forms new international road transport association

The Union of the Associations of International Road Carriers (OTS-URTA) was established, with the help of IRU, to support the work of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). This initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening regional connectivity and road transport networks.

OTS-URTA was inaugurated with the signing of its terms of reference by IRU members from Azerbaijan (ABADA), Kazakhstan (KAZATO), Kyrgyzstan (AIRTO KR), Türkiye (UND), Turkmenistan (THADA) and Uzbekistan (AIRCUZ), with the support of IRU.

The new association will tackle key challenges facing international road transport, customs and trade within the OTS region. It will advocate for reducing operational costs, eliminating barriers to trade and fostering collaboration among road transport associations to develop robust logistics solutions, particularly along the Middle Corridor.

Erman Ereke, IRU's General Delegate in Istanbul, participated in the event and emphasised the transformative potential of this new regional collaboration. In his remarks, he highlighted IRU's steadfast support for the initiative, underscoring the critical role of road transport in driving trade, economic development and regional connectivity.

Erman Ereke reaffirmed IRU's commitment to sharing global expertise and providing guidance to OTS-URTA in overcoming challenges, enhancing efficiency and unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth in the Turkic region and beyond. This landmark partnership promises to create new opportunities for economic growth and regional integration.

IRU Vice President Aslı Çalık also awarded the IRU Diploma of Honour to drivers and road transport companies from the OTS region.

Both Tatiana Rey-Bellet, IRU's Director of TIR and Transit, and Aslı Çalık were also awarded by the UND Women Working Group for their contributions to the industry.