The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) took a significant step toward strengthening regional transport collaboration with the signing of the Terms of Reference for the Union of Associations of International Road Carriers in the Turkic Region (OTS-URTA) on 20 November 2024 in Istanbul. The event was hosted by the International Transporters Association of Türkiye (UND) and attended by representatives from road transport associations across the Turkic region, IRU, and other stakeholders.

In his opening address, OTS Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev emphasized the importance of the platform, saying, “During the recent OTS Bishkek Summit, the Heads of State welcomed the establishment of this new platform and instructed the authorities of the Member States to actively support the activities of OTS-URTA.”

The OTS-URTA aims to address challenges in the road transport sector, foster dialogue, and propose actionable solutions. It will advocate for the interests of road transport carriers, support public-private partnerships, and contribute to OTS’s transport mechanisms, such as Ministerial Meetings and the Transport Coordination Committee.

Leadership roles within the OTS-URTA were also highlighted during the event. The International Transporters Association of Türkiye (UND) will serve as the inaugural Chair, while the Azerbaijan International Road Carriers Association (ABADA) has been appointed Deputy Chair for a two-year term.