The IRU is encouraged by important and positive developments in the review of the 2001 Transport White Paper. In particular the Commission has explicitly recognised the critical role that road transport plays within the EU economy and its success in significantly reducing vehicle emissions. The Commission has also shown pragmatism by acknowledging that a forced modal shift policy simply isn’t working.

Official in charge of marketing and attraction of investments at Imam Khomeini port Mohammad-Ali Izadi said here Tuesday that the port is ready for transit and export of all types of goods to regional countries. Izadi made the remarks during a visit of a Kazakh trade delegation to the port city and its inspection of the port's facilities and capabilities on Tuesday.

Maersk Logistics has been awarded a major supply chain consultancy contract by Abu Dhabi Polymers Co. Ltd (Borouge). Maersk Logistics will provide a six-month consultancy service on the best supply chain concept for marketing their products in key markets including China, Middle East and East Asia.  The project will focus on cost efficiency and shortest lead-times throughout the supply chain. 

I.M. Skaugen ASA (IMSK) has entered into a new Equity Joint Venture (EJV) in China with Zhangjiagang Shenghui Chemical Machinery Co., Ltd (ZSHCM), a maker of steel vessels and structures for refinery and petrochemical production facilities. The Company is located in Zhangjiagang city, in the Jiangsu Province, about two hours northeast of Shanghai.

Madagascar International Container Terminal Services Ltd., manager and operator of the Madagascar International Container Terminal (MICT) in the port of Toamasina, has placed orders for new container handling equipment that will improve operations and service delivery at Madagascar’s main international trading gateway.

FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), and the Indianapolis International Airport unveiled a major expansion project for the express carrier's Indianapolis Hub and a multi-year extended lease agreement that includes construction of up to 14 additional wide-body aircraft gates. Up to approximately 800 additional employees could be hired under the expansion plan, which would bring the hub's employment level to nearly 5,000 people.

ICE (Italian Trade Commission) has instituted the feasibility study for direct intermodal links between Italy and Russia, drawn up by Consar/Confitarma on behalf of ICE, funded by the Industry Ministry. ICE director-general Ugo Calzoni pointed out that this project is part of the effort being made to make the Mediterranean the centre of world interexchange, making Italy the natural European logistics platform.