“Cooperation with Japan in the field of railway transport is of strategic importance for our country.” This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, Lyuben Nanov, within the framework of the Japanese-Bulgarian Business Forum, held in Sofia.
“One of the core priorities of the Ministry of Transport and Communications is to make rail transport the preferred mode of travel for both citizens and businesses. This goal will be achieved through targeted investments in a new generation of modern rolling stock, combining high safety standards, low emissions, and passenger comfort,” Deputy Minister Nanov noted.
He emphasised that, alongside the renewal of rolling stock, important reforms are being prepared to enhance competition in the rail transport market. “Measures are also underway to optimise ongoing maintenance and accelerate the modernisation of railway infrastructure. These steps will enable increased travel speeds and significantly reduce journey times,” said Lyuben Nanov.
Deputy Minister Nanov held a meeting with Mr Akiyoshi Kato, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. The discussion was attended by representatives of 19 leading Japanese companies and governmental organisations.
During the meeting, Lyuben Nanov stated that Bulgaria is exploring alternative financing mechanisms for the implementation of strategic national infrastructure projects. “Together with the National Railway Infrastructure Company, we have prepared a list of potential public–private partnership projects. Among them are three railway tunnels through the Balkan Mountains, the intermodal terminal in Ruse, the doubling of the Plovdiv–Svilengrad–Turkish border railway line, and the integrated management of the entire route,” he announced.
Representatives of the Japanese government confirmed that Japanese companies have full governmental support to participate in infrastructure projects across Central and Eastern Europe. “I hope we will work together to strengthen transport infrastructure, as well as in efforts related to the reconstruction of Ukraine,” said Mr Akiyoshi Kato.
