Russia prepared to contribute to construction of rail line bypassing Budapest

Russia is open to exploring its options for contributing to the construction of a new freight rail line bypassing Budapest, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (ITM) said on Tuesday.

Russian Transport Minister Vitaly Savelyev told Innovation and Technology Minister László Palkovics in a video call that Russia was prepared to share its experience and know-how with Hungary for the construction of the so-called V0 railway line from running from Záhony on the Ukraine-Hungary border, through Győr, in western Hungary, to the Hungry-Austria border, and would examine how it could help finance the project, ITM said in a statement.

The project’s environmental permit could be obtained by next spring, while the feasibility study could be completed by summer 2023,

the ministry cited Palkovics as saying.

Palkovics and Savelyev also welcomed the establishment of a Hungarian, Russian and Austrian cargo joint venture last year.

The JV will focus on bringing imports from China to southern Europe via Russia and Hungary,

the ministry noted.

Meanwhile, the ministers highlighted the importance of scientific and technical cooperation between their research institutes, universities and rail companies. They also welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the ITM and the management of Russian truck maker KAMAZ on establishing an electric vehicle R and D base in Hungary.

As we wrote yesterday, Hungary opposes any measures that may exacerbate the situation in Ukraine while supporting efforts aimed at resolving the conflict through negotiations, the foreign minister said in Brussels. Read more details HERE.

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