PHOTO: European Train Departs Brussels for InnoTrans 2024

This morning, the European train left Brussels Midi/Zuid station at 08:47, heading to InnoTrans 2024 in Berlin. Organized by Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail) and its Members, this train ride is a space for high-level discussions about the future of European rail.

On board are key figures like Georges Gilkinet, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Mobility, Magda Kopczyńska, Director-General for Mobility and Transport at the European Commission, Paloma Iribas Forcat, Chairperson of the European Union Agency for Railways, Rodrigo da Costa, Executive Director of the European Union Agency for the Space Programme, and Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director of EU-Rail. Some Members of the European Parliament are also expected to join.

During the kick-off event, one speaker said, "As we drive to Berlin, we will hold workshops and presentations on board, discussing the transformation of the rail sector."

This trip reflects the growing demand for international rail travel. One speaker pointed out that Deutsche Bahn has already transported over 12 million people across borders in the first half of 2024, a 28% increase compared to 2019. "International long-distance transport is booming, and modern high-speed trains like the ICE Neo are needed. It’s crucial that EU funding for this goal is secured. Every euro invested in cross-border traffic is also an investment in our joint values for the climate, mobility, the economy’s competitiveness, and European cohesion."

As the train heads to Berlin, attendees will join three panels and one workshop discussing the benefits of rail for passengers, new technologies, women in rail, and cooperation between EU-Rail and the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) on digitalization.

The ICE Neo train, which replaced the older ICE 3 Neo models, has already reduced cancellations by over 90%. One speaker explained, "We need reliable, modern trains that can transport people smoothly from A to B, and the ICE Neo is a perfect example of that strategy working."

The train will arrive at Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 15:17, where a welcome ceremony will be held with Volker Wissing, German Minister for Digital Affairs and Transport, Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin (tbc), Richard Lutz, CEO of Deutsche Bahn, and high-level guests, marking the start of InnoTrans 2024, the world’s biggest trade fair for the rail sector.

At InnoTrans, the European Commission, EU-Rail, and ERA will host the European Union stand, showcasing rail innovations, daily panel discussions, and high-level meetings. Tomorrow, on 24 September, a VIP tour of the stand will take place from 11:30 to 12:30, featuring Magda Kopczyńska.

Source: RAILTARGET; Europe's Rail