Improved Cross-Border Connections: European Commission and EIB Advocate European Track Gauge Implementation

Improved Cross-Border Connections: European Commission and EIB Advocate European Track Gauge Implementation

(IN BRIEF) A study conducted by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank (EIB) suggests that implementing the European track gauge on lines to Lviv and Chișinău would be a crucial first step in enhancing connections between Poland and Ukraine, as well as between Romania and Moldova. The study, part of the Solidarity Lanes action plan, addresses barriers to cross-border connections and proposes extending the Trans European Network-Transport to Ukraine and Moldova. The recommended gauge implementation would improve transport links and support Ukrainian imports and exports. The study was conducted by the EIB’s technical advisory service, JASPERS, in collaboration with the involved countries.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUXEMBOURG, 11-Jul-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — The European Investment Bank (EIB), the lending arm of the European Union and the European Commission have jointly published a study that proposes the deployment of the European track gauge on lines to Lviv and Chiṣinău as a crucial first step in enhancing connections between Poland and Ukraine, as well as between Romania and Moldova.

In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, land transport connections between Ukraine and the EU have become vital for Ukrainian imports and exports. To bolster cross-border connections, the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes initiative was established. The study, released today as part of the Solidarity Lanes action plan, assesses remaining barriers, including the disparity in rail gauge used between most of the EU and Eastern Europe. Recently, the Connecting Europe Facility II selected nine projects for funding aimed at improving crossing points. Additionally, the Commission has proposed extending the Trans European Network–Transport to Ukraine and Moldova.

Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean said: “By building the first EU rail gauge in Ukraine and Moldova, linking their railways with Poland and Romania, will bring them closer to the EU single market. With this study, we are setting the scene for long-term solutions, supporting Ukraine in its post-war trade and reconstruction. Ensuring interoperability from Poland through Ukraine, Moldova and Romania will also mean a smoother, more efficient travel experience for citizens.” 

EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who is responsible for bank’s operations in Ukraine and Moldova, said: “Extending the standard gauge of the European railway network to Ukraine and Moldova will facilitate the movement of goods and services, helping the two countries to integrate more quickly into the EU market and accelerating Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Developing modern transport links is a way for us to foster the region’s economic growth and provide steadfast support to Ukraine and Moldova on their paths to EU integration.”

Considering factors such as costs, anticipated demand, and line capacity, the study recommends the establishment of a European track gauge connection from Kraków/Katowice (Poland) to Lviv (Ukraine) and from Iasi (Romania) to Chisinău (Moldova) as a primary step. Further extensions are also suggested. The study also evaluates how the new standard gauge lines in Ukraine and Moldova would integrate with the existing broad gauge network in these countries.

The study was conducted by the EIB’s technical advisory service, JASPERS, in close collaboration with all relevant countries.

Media contact:

Olga Sushytska
o.sushytska@ext.eib.org
+380 443908018

Press Office
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SOURCE: European Investment Bank