Alexei Overchuk: At the recently concluded meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Independent States, issues of trade and economic cooperation were traditionally among the central topics of discussion. The heads of government exchanged views and compared assessments.
The participants also received a report on the joint efforts of the CIS member states to establish a shared geospatial data website. In essence, this initiative is expected to provide a modern digital foundation for cooperation in geodesy, cartography, and the use of Earth remote sensing data across a broad range of practical applications. These include real estate registration, tourism, and spatial planning – an increasingly important topic. The outcomes achieved thus far were presented to the heads of government today.
Of course, digital transformation has received considerable attention recently. Effective coordination and joint advancement in the application of digital technologies are essential.
Particular emphasis at this meeting was placed on the digital transformation of the mining and metallurgical sector, which is a foundational pillar of economic development and an important factor in strengthening the economic sovereignty of CIS member states.
Another key subject of discussion concerned the growing interconnectivity of regional transport infrastructure. This issue has acquired particular importance amid declining security in maritime transport routes, prompting increased attention toward the development of land-based transport and logistics corridors. It is also very symbolic that this issue was addressed in Turkmenistan during the country’s chairmanship. It is one of the major European crossroads, where the East–West route intersects with the eastern branch of the International North–South Transport Corridor. This topic has growing relevance in today’s geopolitical and economic environment.
The meeting also addressed the humanitarian and cultural agenda. Minsk was chosen as the next CIS Youth Capital.
Organisational issues were also discussed.
As per tradition, the meeting was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere. I would also like to thank Turkmenistan, the host country, for its hospitality and successful organisation of the meeting.
