Context
South-East Europe stands at a strategic crossroads. Strengthening rail connectivity is no longer only a transport priority—it is a matter of economic sovereignty, regional stability, and integration into global trade corridors linking Europe with the Middle East and beyond.
As countries of the region advance toward alignment with European interoperability standards (TSIs) and integration into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), rail must become a pillar of sustainable growth, resilience, and competitiveness.
However, key challenges remain: fragmented cross-border links, infrastructure modernisation needs, limited interoperability, and the need to accelerate digital and green transitions.
Purpose of the Event
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of SEESARI [1] this high-level conference will bring together head of state, ministers, railway leaders, international financial institutions, and industry partners to:
- Affirm a shared political vision for a connected and competitive railway system in South-East Europe
- Accelerate regional integration and cross-border coordination through the concrete projects
- Mobilise strategic investments in infrastructure, digitalisation, and innovation
- Strengthen cooperation with international partners to ensure alignment with European standards and global best practices
The event will underline the role of the International Union of Railways (UIC) as a strategic partner of members, supporting implementation, standardisation, and capacity building, in close cooperation with the European and global bodies/
High-Level Participation
The conference should gather:
- The President of the Republic of Serbia / Presidency
- Ministers of Transport from the Western Balkans
- CEOs of railway undertakings and infrastructure managers
- International financial institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the World Bank, and the French Development Agency
- Leading logistics and freight operators
- European innovation and research bodies, including the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking and the European Rail Research Advisory Council
Strategic Priorities
1. Regional Connectivity and Integration
Developing seamless cross-border rail links and strengthening integration into European corridors
2. Investment and Financing
Unlocking large-scale funding for modern, resilient, and sustainable rail infrastructure
3. Competitive Rail Freight and Logistics
Positioning rail as a backbone of regional and international supply chains though concrete project to support the international corridors – interoperable solutions
4. Innovation and Technological Leadership
Deploying next-generation solutions, including digital operations and data sharing, 5G telecoms - FRMCS, predictive maintenance, and automation
Expected Outcomes
- Identification of priority regional rail projects
- Strengthened dialogue between governments, railways, and financiers
- New partnerships across rail, logistics, and innovation ecosystems
- Clear positioning of UIC as a facilitator of knowledge, standards, and implementation support through concrete projects and technical solutions
- Enhanced positioning of South-East Europe as a key gateway between Europe and global markets
Strategic Message
Rail is a driver of sovereignty, connectivity, and sustainable prosperity.
Through strengthened cooperation, targeted investment, and the support of partners such as the International Union of Railways, South-East Europe has the opportunity to build a modern, interoperable, and future-ready railway system, fully integrated into the European and global transport network.