The International Road Federation World Congress started in Istanbul with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivering the opening speech via video conference. President Erdogan emphasized that in their political understanding, roads represent civilization, encompassing industry, production, tourism, trade, security, development, and integration with the world. Addressing the event, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu expressed that by discussing mobility, digitalization, climate change, and green transformation comprehensively at the congress, they will contribute significantly to the sector with solutions guided by collective wisdom.

President Erdogan mentioned that every year, the IRF adds new successful projects to ensure the development of better, safer, and more sustainable road networks globally. Highlighting that Turkey has reached remarkable milestones in transportation and infrastructure through significant initiatives, he noted the goal to extend the divided road length to over 38,000 kilometers. Uraloglu emphasized the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor for Turkey, mentioning key projects like the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway and various tunnels developed to enhance the country’s position as a logistics hub.

Uraloglu also underlined the country’s focus on rail transport and the objective to increase the rail network to 28,600 kilometers by 2053. The aim is to enhance annual passenger and freight transport by the railways significantly. Additionally, the implementation of sustainable, smart mobility solutions and the promotion of green transportation methods are pivotal for reducing carbon emissions and achieving a sustainable transport ecosystem.

Furthermore, efforts are ongoing to expand the fiber optic cable infrastructure and develop smart transportation systems on highways. Turkey aims to boost the number of flight destinations on international routes and foresee over 236 million passengers utilizing airports by the end of the year, targeting even higher figures in the upcoming years. The country has invested over 277 billion dollars in the transportation and communication infrastructure over the past 22 years.

In conclusion, building a sustainable transportation system for the future hinges on decarbonization, resilient infrastructure, smart transport systems, intermodality, and asset management. Collaborative efforts and innovative solutions will pave the way for a sustainable transportation system benefiting future generations.