IRU’s regional office in Istanbul, Türkiye, celebrates 20 years of driving safe, efficient and green road transport across the Black Sea region.
IRU, the world road transport organisation, established its Permanent Delegation in Istanbul in 2005.
Through close collaboration with customs and transport authorities, as well as with IRU members in the region, the Istanbul office focuses on facilitating trade and transit, particularly with the TIR system and regional connectivity projects.
It also promotes professional excellence through IRU certification and standards and supports sustainability through the IRU Green Compact. Other key priorities include tackling driver shortages, increasing the participation of women, reducing industry costs, and cutting visa delays.
IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto said, “Our Permanent Delegation in Istanbul plays a pivotal role in enabling efficient and secure trade in the Black Sea region and beyond, especially with TIR.
“We look forward to continuing our work with members and partners to further advance road transport in the region.”
Türkiye’s strategic location bridges Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, making it a critical hub for international road corridors. Yet persistent delays at key border crossings continue to hold drivers hostage and hinder trade flows.
IRU General Delegate in Istanbul Erman Ereke said, “Digitalisation is central to improving trade and transit in the region. IRU is advocating for the broader adoption of practical tools, such as express TIR Green Lanes, and a faster implementation of eTIR to reduce border waiting times. This digital shift will increase transparency and boost efficiency at every stage of transport.”
“The growing number of TIR operations along the Middle Corridor, together with Iraq’s recent accession to TIR and the reopening of its territory for transit after more than 20 years, mark a major milestone for the industry. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the IRU Istanbul office, we are excited to help advance these developments and further contribute to the road transport industry,” he added.
As the Istanbul office enters its third decade, IRU remains committed to supporting the region's evolving transport and transit needs through innovation, collaboration and global standards.