Have your say in the EU industrial maritime and IWT strategy

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A significant green and digital revolution is occurring in waterborne transportation.

The Commission is developing a plan that is making the EU’s maritime manufacturing industry and associated value chain more resilient, sustainable, and competitive. Additionally, this will support a robust European inland waterway and maritime transportation industry. The plan will incorporate measures to expedite the transition, including those related to investment, innovation, and promoting equitable opportunities for all.

Access the link below to see the call for evidence and submit your feedback:

European Commission Initiative 

Recap of the third consultative ERTMS Forum

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The third consultative ERTMS Forum, held in Brussels on 27 June 2025, focused on the current state and future direction of ERTMS deployment across Europe. Key themes included alignment across borders, systems, and timelines.

The forum introduced the Coordinator’s draft ERTMS work plan, which will serve as the basis for the upcoming European Deployment Plan (EDP). The work plan aims to guide investment, align timelines, and set expectations across Europe’s rail corridors. The forum also discussed the broader context shaping ERTMS deployment, with the European Commission’s High-Speed Rail Action Plan due in September and the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

The new ERA Executive Director, Oana Gherghinescu, spoke about the importance of innovation, particularly around 5G rail communication and authorisations, and the need for streamlining procedures. Switzerland’s presentation highlighted the need for a broader perspective, including vehicles, harmonised operational rules, and a shared cross-border commitment to implementation.

The next Forum is scheduled for November in Denmark, with a webinar on lessons learned from the NIP process on 10 July.

Source: 

European Commission 

One further step towards strengthening rail transport in Baden-Württemberg

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At a summit meeting, the state of Baden-Württemberg and Deutsche Bahn signed two agreements to strengthen rail transport in the region. The joint plans include a Declaration of Intent to confirm close cooperation between the state government and Deutsche Bahn and a Letter of Intent (LoI) on better equipment standards for railway stations. The aim is to establish uniform, higher-quality criteria for station renovation, including improving weather protection and barrier-free access at small stations. The state and Deutsche Bahn are strengthening their partnership to fulfil their shared responsibilities for mobility and climate protection.

Rail transport is a fundamental component of climate protection in Baden-Württemberg, with passenger numbers expected to double by 2030 compared to 2010. The state government plans to double passenger numbers by 2030, but rail transport is struggling with an overburdened network. The memorandum of understanding focuses on a joint position on financing through the special fund, strengthening small and medium-sized infrastructure measures, and digitising the railways. Standards for improved construction site management will also be defined.

The LoI serves as a framework for new local rail station projects, with the state covering all additional costs.

Source(in German): 

Baden-Württemberg.de