Uzbekistan exploring possibility of building ferries in Azerbaijan

BAKU. Feb 10 (Interfax) - Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are discussing opportunities to collaborate in building ferries, Baku Shipyard posted on social media.

"The discussions took place during a visit to Azerbaijan by a delegation of representatives from Uzbekistan's relevant agencies in the areas of transport, logistics, and investment. The delegation visited Baku Shipyard during the visit, where the participants were introduced to the shipyard's production capabilities and technical potential," according to the statement.

The parties also exchanged views on potential joint projects in the region.

"Particular attention was paid to the potential for collaborating in maritime transport, including ferry construction," according to the statement.

Uzbekistan's Transport Minister Ilkhom Makhkamov earlier announced plans to launch the country's own ferries on the Caspian Sea owing to the sharp increase in shipping volumes and congestion, which currently lasts 30-40 days. The possibility of acquiring vessels from shipyards in Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan is under consideration.

Baku Shipyard LLC, a joint venture between the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) and Azerbaijan Investment Company, manages Baku Shipyard. The foundation stone for the enterprise was laid in March 2010, and the shipyard opened in September 2013. The company's main activities include constructing auxiliary vessels, general-purpose vessels, tugboats, crane vessels, specialized vessels, passenger vessels, and tankers. The shipyard also repairs and refits ships.