Minister Uraloğlu makes statement regarding visa issues

Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu stated that efforts are ongoing to revive the land and rail crossings previously used between Turkey and Armenia, noting that necessary maintenance, preparation, and tender processes are progressing on both sides.

Minister Uraloğlu remarked, "Trade is conducted and agreements are signed between Turkey and an EU member state or other countries. Invoices are issued, and payments are made. After that, these goods need to be transported.

Especially in terms of transportation, including road and rail, if visas are not issued on time, customs crossings are not facilitated, and digital infrastructure is not established, you are essentially wasting a completed job at customs gates or due to visa procedures."

Pointing out that cargo coming from China to Europe can reach its destination in either 14 or 45 days depending on the route, Uraloğlu said, "We really need to facilitate this. If we are not going to facilitate it, then why are we doing trade? No country, including the most developed ones, is in a position to be self-sufficient anymore. Therefore, it would be beneficial to issue driver visas and seafarer visas quickly (with the EU), and also to facilitate customs transit procedures."

News Source: 12punto