Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, Sep. 18 / Trend, H. Hasanov /
Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov at the workshop expressed dissatisfaction with the low pace of implementation of projects under the master plan of the international sea port in Turkmenbashi and national merchant marine to 2020, the Turkmen government reported on Tuesday.
The Head of State expressed on this occasion a number of criticisms. In particular, it was noted that it is not up to the works on modernization of port infrastructure and the renewal of the fleet.
"In this regard the Turkmen leader instructed to take appropriate measures aimed at enhancing the attractiveness and competitiveness of the port of Turkmenbashi, including the purchase of vessels for international export, import and transit cargo, passenger traffic increase, the development of tourism activities," - the information reads.
Chairman of the State Service of Maritime and River Transport of Turkmenistan Meylis Mutdikov was severely reprimanded for unsatisfactory performance of his duties, the shortcomings in the work.
Turkmen leader demanded as soon as possible to eliminate the drawbacks, warning him that in case of failure to correct the situation, he will be relieved of his duties.
Shipping services have an important role in the development of foreign economic relations of Turkmenistan. International sea port city of Turkmenbashi to become a major transit point for passing through the country of the international "East-West" and "North-South" transport corridors.
According to the general plan of 2020, it's planned to build a shipyard/ship repair yard, create a rescue service, purchase equipment and environmental court to reconstruct the railway ferry terminal, the existing oil piers, harbor tugs available, rekonsturirovat dry cargo port station Aladzha berth.
Scheduled construction of additional berths and autopassenger terminal, deepening and widening the navigation channel port of Turkmenbashi, the construction of a new control tower to coordinate the work of the port, the creation of a logistics center, including the construction of berth for container and dry cargo vessels with a length of 1500m.
According to experts, a full-scale transformation of the port in Turkmenbashi will require investments of several billion dollars, the country has already studied the experience of free economic zones in the UAE, Singapore and Hong Kong. Its desire to participate in the modernization of naval harbor announced dozens of foreign companies.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Japan International Cooperation Agency are interested in this project. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the Government of Turkmenistan already signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the modernization of the port.