OREANDA-NEWS. On May 24, 2007 in his opening remarks, Yakunin said that the Business Forum Strategic Partnership 1520 unites “not only railway networks using the 1520 mm broad-gauge system, but also consignors, shippers and companies making transport machinery in Europe and Asia”, reported the press-centre of  Russian Railways.

“The Business Forum will facilitate the integration of the broad-gauge system into international rail transport. In recent years, new opportunities have arisen which are encouraging the development of international and transit container shipments. Russian Railways has consolidated its partnership with the railways in Italy, France, Finland, Kazakhstan and Urkaine,” said Yakunin.

Yakunin also emphasised that Russian Railways is interested in the further development of ties with the railway systems of Kazakhstan, Finland, China and North and South Korea, especially with regard to transit shipments.

Yakunin also noted that Russian Railways is ready to sign long-term contracts with Russian companies making transport machinery, which will ensure that the Company has the necessary rolling stock and manufacturers have a sales market.

In conclusion, Yakunin expressed his firm conviction that the Business Forum will become an excellent platform for meeting new business partners and developing cooperation.