The event is attended by heads and experts of customs services, as well as other competent agencies from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

On the first day of the meeting, the participants discussed the issues of organization of control over freight traffic, as well as possibilities of strengthening interregional practical cooperation between the customs services of the countries participating in the program in identifying high-risk cargo. In addition, within the framework of the meeting, it is planned to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on establishment within the UN Office on Drugs and Crime of the Interregional network of customs services and port control groups between the customs services of ten countries participating in the program.

Foreign experts at the event noted that container transportation has become an important part of global trade. About 90% of all trade is conducted via maritime containers of which more than 650 million are shipped yearly in the trade supply chain, and of this amount, less than 2% are inspected. At the same time, wider involvement in growing global trade is a priority for many countries, which increases the risks of moving illicit goods.

In confrontation between customs officers and smugglers, the key role is played by modern technologies, which make it possible to determine the contents of a container or train car without physical inspection.

The meeting will last until May 23.