The Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine and the Ministry of Transport of the Czech Republic have agreed to simplify the opening of bus routes between the two countries. In particular, the need to have a parity partner from a neighbouring country has been cancelled and the deadlines for route approval and permitting have been set at 4 months.

The decision was approved at a meeting of the joint commission with the participation of the ministries of both countries.

“The growing demand for bus transportation requires the state to ensure an efficient process for opening new routes so that the market can quickly respond to passenger demand. The Czech Republic is one of the most popular countries for bus services, so together with our Czech colleagues we have simplified the procedure for opening routes. First of all, we are removing the requirement for a parity partner, which complicates the procedure, and setting clear timeframes so that the carrier can plan its activities. I am confident that this decision will improve transport accessibility, increase passenger traffic and boost business,” said Serhiy Derkach, Deputy Minister for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development.

The minutes of the meeting stipulate that the route approval and issuance of a permit to the carrier should take place within four months. Communication channels for the approval of new routes were also determined.

In addition, the commission verified the network of bus routes between the two countries. The Czech Republic became the first country with which Ukraine ensured full compliance of regular bus routes.

Earlier this year, an agreement was reached with Slovakia on the possibility of non-parity passenger transportation for Ukrainian companies.