BSEC-URTA Passenger Transport Working Party Successfully Held on 9 April 2026
The BSEC-URTA Passenger Transport Working Party Meeting was successfully held online on 9 April 2026, bringing together representatives from member associations and key stakeholders across the region.
During the meeting, a wide range of critical issues affecting passenger transport were discussed. One of the most important conclusions was the strong overlap between the challenges faced by passenger and freight transport sectors, highlighting the need for a more coordinated and joint approach.
The initiator of the Working Party, Ms. Aslı Çalık, emphasized the importance of acting together on common challenges, a view that was strongly supported by all participants.
Key topics addressed during the meeting included:
- Border crossing delays
- Digitalisation of transport systems
- Driver visa issues
- The need for more predictable conditions in passenger transport between the EU and neighbouring countries
- Potential operational impacts of upcoming EU systems such as EES and ETIAS, which may lead to increased uncertainty and delays
Participants underlined that ensuring predictability and operational stability in passenger transport is becoming increasingly critical.
Participants also discussed the upcoming implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is expected to enter into force on 10 April 2026. In this context, it was agreed that the impact of the EES system on the transport sector will be closely monitored, and the findings obtained from this process will be evaluated and discussed at the 47th Meeting of the BSEC-URTA General Assembly in Thessaloniki.
A special country case presentation was delivered by Mr. Mr. Volodymyr Balin, Vice President of ASMAP Ukraine, who highlighted the importance of road transport as the only functioning international transport mode in Ukraine under current war conditions. His presentation demonstrated the strategic importance of maintaining strong and resilient road transport systems globally.
It was also noted that current driver visa challenges have already led to protests in some regions, reinforcing the need to recognize the international driver profession as a globally acknowledged status.
In addition, Mr. Erman Ereke, IRU Istanbul General Delegate, provided insights into IRU’s ongoing work in the field of passenger transport. Representatives from the University of Geneva also underlined the importance of stronger cooperation between academia and the transport sector.
The Working Party extended its sincere appreciation to:
- Mr. Sergii Krevchenko for his continued support to BSEC-URTA
- Ms. Vesna Djordjevic for successfully chairing the meeting
- ASMAP Ukraine for their valuable contribution
