Uzbekistan, Iran intend to expand transport links with Turkmenistan

SAMARKAND. Sept 14 (Interfax) - The establishment of road transportation on the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan-Iran route and the efficient use of the potential of the Chabahar port were discussed during talks between Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi, the Uzbek presidential press service said on Wednesday.

"The parties focused on transport and logistics cooperation. It was noted that the establishment of automobile transportation on the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan-Iran route and the efficient use of the potential of the Chabahar port will help expand opportunities in this area," the statement said.

During the talks, the two presidents discussed fostering bilateral ties, expanding practical cooperation in political, trade and economic, investment and cultural and humanitarian fields, the press service said.

"The existence of ample opportunities for further increasing the trade turnover up to $1 billion in the near future was emphasized," it said.

A relevant roadmap will be elaborated for this purpose. Additionally, there are plans to sign an agreement on preferential trade, the press service added.

Iranian President Raisi arrived to Uzbekistan on an official visit on September 14. He will also attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Samarkand on September 15-16.