On 12 November, the European Parliament and Council reached a trialogue agreement on the European Year of Rail 2021. The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) welcomes this decision to put the spotlight on a transport mode with a strong track record in climate neutrality, energy efficiency, resilience, and innovation.
CER also welcomes the proposal for two feasibility studies, on the creation of a European label to promote goods transported by rail and on the idea of a rail connectivity index. CER expects that these studies will further showcase the benefits of rail transport for both passengers and freight across Europe and is ready to provide its input.
CER Executive Director Libor Lochman said: “Declaring 2021 as European Year of Rail was a deliberate and most welcome decision to shine a light on rail’s important role in achieving EU Green Deal objectives. We very much welcome this decision paving the way for many engaging activities in 2021. We will certainly contribute in promoting rail to get more people and goods on tracks.”