The OSCE Centre in Astana in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport and Communication of Kazakhstan and EU “International Logistics Centre/NODES Network in Central Asia” Project is holding the National Workshop on “Physical and non-physical barriers to trade. Problems and solutions. Ensuring transport security” on 11 August 2009 in Astana. The draft program is attached.

The objective of the workshop is to raise awareness on gaps and needs in trade and transport policy, contribute to transport security in Kazakhstan by sharing good practices and facilitate a dialogue among involved state and non-governmental stakeholders, as well as international organizations. This workshop is particularly timely as it comes in the run-up to the 1st Preparatory Conference to the 18th OSCE EEF, “Promoting good governance at border crossings, improving security of land transportation and facilitating international transport by road and rail in the OSCE region.”

It is expected that the workshop will gather around 40 participants representing government officials, non-governmental organizations, experts, international and regional organizations and other interested persons.

To register for the event, please contact Aiman Smagulova via email asmagulova@osce.org no later than July 23, 2009.