There is great potential for rail freight transport between Russia and Uzbekistan. Cargo shipping volumes between the countries increased by 25 per cent in the first seven months of this year. Railways plays an important role in this, and the countries will cooperate in developing the needed infrastructure.

This was concluded by representatives in a bilateral meeting last week. During this meeting, General Director and Chairman of the Board of Russian Railways Oleg Belozerov and Deputy Prime-Minister for Investments and Foreign Economic Affairs – Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sardor Umurzakov discussed important issues relevant to cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan in railway development.

Positive dynamics

Cargo shipping between the two countries is showing stable, positive dynamics. In 2019, it increased by 4 per cent and exceeded 7 million tonnes. This year so far, the volumes have increased by 25 per cent compared to the same period last year, amounting to 4.5 million tonnes.

Nevertheless, the representatives noted that the potential for transportation is far from being realised. There is much that remains to be done, especially when it comes to the infrastructure of railways in Uzbekistan. Considering that both Russian Railways and Oʻzbekiston Temir Yoʻllari have advanced technologies and experience in building infrastructure that meets the most demanding international standards, the parties have noted the great potential of bilateral cooperation in carrying out complex projects in Uzbekistan.