Great news for Kyivans and everyone who likes to travel in Europe! The European Union has set itself an ambitious goal – to create a high-speed railway connection that will connect Berlin and Kyiv by 2040. The new initiative is part of the development of the trans-European transport network TEN-T, and its implementation can make travel between Ukraine and Europe more accessible, convenient and fast. Why is this news important for the people of Kyiv and what advantages will the new connection bring? Let’s understand in more detail.
What is TEN-T and why is it important?
The Trans-European Transport Network, known as TEN-T, is a large-scale project aimed at improving transport links between European countries. The goal of the network is to create a single transport space that includes roads, railways, waterways and air travel, providing comfortable and fast access between European cities. Ukraine, as a strategic partner of the EU, can also benefit from this network, in particular, through the creation of high-speed connections between Kyiv and other European capitals.
Project details: Berlin-Warsaw-Kyiv
The project does not just connect Berlin and Kyiv. It will also be a continuation of the existing high-speed connection between Berlin and Warsaw, which means that it will significantly facilitate access to the European transport network. The new European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tsitsikostas, said that he would make this project his priority and cooperate with the governments of Germany, Poland and Ukraine for its implementation.
The Kyiv-Berlin high-speed train can also change the tourism industry. Germany is one of the popular destinations for Ukrainian tourists, but the convenience of the train opens up new perspectives for travel and cultural exchange. The possibility of a night train, which was also mentioned, will be an attractive option for tourists, allowing them to travel in comfort and save on overnight stays in hotels.
What lies ahead: when to expect the first flight?
So far, the official launch date has not been announced, but the goal is by 2040. This means that there is a lot of preparatory work ahead, coordination at the level of governments and possibly the construction of new sections of the railway. However, for Ukrainians who dream of a simple and fast connection with Europe, this prospect already opens new horizons.