Perspectives on the Development of the International Transport Corridor "North - South" Discussed in St. Petersburg
On November 22, 2024, a plenary session was held as part of the autumn session of the VI Economic Congress of the International Municipal Forum of BRICS, focused on the topic "Interregional and Intermunicipal Cooperation as a Key Factor for the Economic Development of BRICS Countries". The central topic of the discussion was the development of the International Transport Corridor (ITC) "North - South", which connects Russia, the Caspian region, the Middle East, and South Asia. Special attention was given to improving port infrastructure and modernizing the fleet. The event was organized by "World Service", which is actively involved in the development of the logistics and shipbuilding industries.
During the session, a project for the shipbuilding and shiprepair cluster in the city of Lagani, the Republic of Kalmykia, was presented. This strategic project, developed with the support of the Business Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), is aimed at modernizing the transport fleet and creating modern port infrastructure. The project includes the construction of an ice-free shipyard, which will increase cargo traffic through the Trans-Caspian route and reduce logistics costs. The project is also expected to create hundreds of new jobs and attract investments to the region.
An important role in the implementation of the project is played by the Competence Center in Shipbuilding and Ship Repair in the SCO+ space, based in St. Petersburg. The Center coordinates the efforts of experts, research institutes, and industrial enterprises to implement innovative solutions and train qualified personnel. Participants noted that the Center's activities, in collaboration with "World Service" and SCO initiatives, strengthen international cooperation, contribute to the economic development of the region, and integrate Russia into global logistics systems.
