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Yesterday, the Connecting Europe Express reached its final destination of Paris after 36 days travelling across Europe - West to East, North to South, and even visiting neighbours outside the EU. This train was specially put together for the occasion of the European Year of Rail 2021, aiming to raise awareness of the benefits of rail and the challenges which still need to be overcome. The train made over 120 stops, crossed 26 countries and 33 borders, travelling on three different gauges along the way.
Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean said: "The Connecting Europe Express has been a rolling laboratory, revealing in real-time the many achievements of our Single European Rail Area and our TEN-T network to allow for seamless travel across our Union. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped us turn the Connecting Europe Express from an idea into reality, a packed and exciting itinerary, memorable meetings – of minds and persons – and a true flag-bearer for European rail."
The final event in Paris was an opportunity to present the initial conclusions drawn during the unique train journey. First, for rail to unleash its potential, a true cross-border, modern, high-quality rail infrastructure is a basic requirement. Second, existing infrastructure must be better managed and its capacity improved. Third, greater pan-European coordination and common requirements are needed, and the Single European Rail Area must be enhanced. Fourth, rail needs to become more attractive to encourage more people and companies to choose rail.
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