Serbia-Hungary Railway Reaches Milestone as Track Laying Completed for Novi Sad-Subotica Section

The Belgrade-Budapest railway project achieved a significant milestone on April 26, 2024, as the tracks on the Novi Sad-Subotica section, built by Chinese contractors, were successfully connected in Backa Topola, Serbia. The completion of the 108-km section marks substantial progress in the construction of the high-speed railway line between the two countries.

Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Milos Vucevic emphasized the significance of China-Serbia collaboration in completing the railway tracks, commending the joint efforts of over 2,000 individuals working daily on the project. "The connection of the railway tracks on the Novi Sad-Subotica section is a significant step forward in strengthening the friendship between Serbia and China," Vucevic stated.

Serbian Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure Goran Vesic announced that the completion of the railway line was ahead of schedule, underscoring its importance in improving Serbia's transportation network. The high-speed railway, once operational, will be equipped with modern signaling and safety systems, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities.

Chinese Ambassador to Serbia Li Ming expressed appreciation for the Serbian government's support in constructing the Belgrade-Budapest railway. "The successful completion of the Novi Sad-Subotica section is a testament to the strong cooperation between China and Serbia," Li Ming remarked, emphasizing the project's role in enhancing connectivity and economic ties between the two nations.

Why this matters: The completion of the Novi Sad-Subotica section of the Belgrade-Budapest railway is a significant step towards improving transportation infrastructure and connectivity between Serbia and Hungary. The high-speed railway line is expected to boost economic cooperation and trade between the two countries, while also strengthening China's ties with the region through its Belt and Road Initiative.

The Belgrade-Budapest railway project, a key component of China's Belt and Road Initiative, aims to enhance transportation links between Central and Eastern Europe. The successful completion of the Novi Sad-Subotica section demonstrates the progress made in the project and highlights the strong cooperation between Serbia, Hungary, and China in advancing regional connectivity and economic development.

Key Takeaways

• China-built Novi Sad-Subotica railway section completed in Serbia.
• Milestone marks progress in Belgrade-Budapest high-speed rail project.
• Project strengthens China-Serbia friendship and regional connectivity.
• High-speed rail to reduce travel time between Belgrade and Budapest.
• Project part of China's Belt and Road Initiative in Central/Eastern Europe.