New Delhi: The Cabinet on Tuesday gave a go-ahead to the proposal to sign an inter-governmental agreement on Dry Ports of International Importance, a move aimed at promoting global trade.
"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave its approval for signing and ratifying of the Inter-Governmental Agreement on Dry Ports of International Importance for signature at the UN Headquarters in New York," an official statement said.
This is a follow up of the resolution of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) regarding development of dry ports within member countries of UNESCAP, including India, it said.
It said that the agreement promotes international recognition of dry ports, facilitates investment in infrastructure and improves operational efficiency of inter modal transport services. It also establishes guiding principles for development and operation of dry ports and enhances the environmental sustainability of freight transport.
"The agreement will help in connectivity and integration of the Asian highway network, the trans-Asian railways network and other modes by working towards development of dry ports," the release said.
There is a need to promote and develop an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system in Asia with its neighbouring regions, it said, adding the pact will facilitate and expand international goods transport as a consequence of growing international trade in the region.
"The agreement will also lead to strengthening of connectivity and seamless international movement of goods, facilitate increased efficiency and reduce cost of transport and logistics as well as extend reach to inland areas and wider hinterlands," it added.
Seventeen countries have signed this agreement so far. They include Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.
