“I wish you great success in important work on implementing the customs policy of our independent country, on safeguarding its economic security and national interests”, states the congratulatory address by the head of state. “Turkmenistan’s positions in the global economic space are strengthening. To improve the tools of macroeconomic regulation and diversify the national economy, we modernize the relevant legal framework. As part of this work, the Law of Turkmenistan “On Free Economic Zones” has been adopted recently”. Our initiatives aimed at developing the regional transport and logistics infrastructure find broad support from the world community. As a result of concerted actions, the ancient Silk Road is being revived in a modern format of international motorways, railways and airways. Thus, Turkmenistan is turning into a country of major transport and logistics hubs of interregional and intercontinental significance that are located along this international trade route. Only within the past year the section of the Asian International Railway Transport Corridor, passing through our country, and major transport bridges over the Amudarya River were put into operation. Construction of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport and airports in Dashoguz and Turkmenabat has reached final stages. All these facts serve as ample evidence of successful state strategy in the area of transport and logistics. To ensure successful functioning of free economic zones in our country and increase the capacity of transit corridors, to implement the existing vast potential in transport and logistics and raise it to a new level, it is rather important to organize the work of customs service in accordance with the modern requirements and remain committed to its continuous improvement. Our country expands cultural and humanitarian ties with other nations, while its international reputation is enhancing. Ashgabat successfully hosted the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games. Work of customs officers in organizing reliable customs clearance at the border during these major international competitions, in ensuring prompt admission of foreign guests and their luggage, and high results achieved by athletes from the State Border Service are particularly noteworthy. With the opening of the Turkmenistan section of the Asian International Railway Transport Corridor, we have put into operation the new Ymamnazar Railway Line customs checkpoint built along its route and equipped in accordance with current standards, and proceeded with the construction of an adjoining dry port. This year the advanced electronic system has been introduced at the State Customs Service. Based on the best practices, it conducts online control of the movement of motor vehicles carrying international cargo through our country. Moreover, a united information and communication system, operating on modern software, is being established to automate the processing of customs documentation. We will continue to take necessary steps to improve the work of the customs service. In the period of transition of the national economy to an innovative development, the customs authorities face important tasks. They include promoting innovations in logistics, active engagement in creating free economic zones, protecting rights and interests of the people of our country, preventing import of goods that may adversely affect the development of our economy and society. I firmly believe that every one of you will spare no effort in working selflessly to address these important tasks honorably”, stresses the presidential address.