Road Programs
Black Sea Ring Highway
Following recent enlargement of the European Union, the countries bordering the Black Sea have become the Union’s new neighbours and as such can expect to experience major economic growth in the coming years. Economic development requires effective transport infrastructure in order to carry goods to markets, however the region’s existing road infrastructure is likely to be insufficient and create economic challenges in the future.
The IRF encourages a regional approach to the Black Sea ring; by looking at the transport system as one complete network the program for the region seeks to identify schemes that could be developed for public-private partnerships and bring together the necessary players to turn such schemes into viable infrastructure projects.
Silk Road
The IRF believes that the historical Silk Road, which provided a route for trade and a bridge for cultural exchange for centuries, is just as important today as it was in the past. The IRF Silk Road program, which seeks to rehabilitate the ancient roads that once linked Asia and Europe, provides a unique platform for the exchange of views between countries along the Silk Road, and encourages dialogue and cooperation aimed at the development of effective road transport in the region.
International conferences co-organised by the IRF, hosted in countries along the Silk Road, attract participation from government transport officials, international organizations and financial institutions as well as representatives from international companies in the road transport sector. The IRF supports regional and international cooperation to bring together all the necessary elements to devise an effective road network to serve the region and enhance its economic development.