By Portuario Editorial Portal

@PortalPortuario

That State Railways Company (EFE) And UK Department of Transport signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in the field of cargo and passenger transportation.

The memorandum of understanding stipulates mutual cooperation in such aspects as passenger and freight rail systems, asset management, infrastructure maintenance, project management, rail and intermodal network design, decarbonization, carbon footprint reduction and heritage protection, among others.

The above took place before the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Juan Carlos MunozBritish Ambassador to Chile louise desousaEFE President, Eric Martinand British Government Trade Envoys, menzies sign.

In this context, Minister Muñoz stated that he is very enthusiastic about working as a Government “to be able to gradually incorporate the learning and knowledge of the British rail system in terms of maintenance, operation, design, service, technology and what elements we have to strengthen the system us and where we also have a lot of coincidences with the British rail system”.

“There are a number of common elements that make this collaboration between the UK and our country on rail issues very exciting and could be very fruitful,” he added.

Meanwhile, Eric Martin indicated that “we are working to sign a five year agreement today which will allow us to develop various aspects. For example, we can contribute and collaborate with our experience in construction because we have the highest seismic standards in the world.”

“Similarly, all the technologies that the UK has developed and the experience they have in between modes also helps us to see how we can serve our users better. Our relationship with ports is key to the country’s economic development and of course the UK has a lot of experience and we want to learn a lot from them as well.”

Meanwhile, the British ambassador, Louise De Sousa, said that “this agreement is a great opportunity which further strengthens the relationship between the UK and Chile, offers a framework for exchanging experiences and can contribute to a cleaner and greener future, as well as economic growth.” which is more sustainable.

“We are open to developing collaborations in areas of technical and technological interest of both countries and we hope that innovative British railway technology can contribute to Chile and we can share experiences,” he added.

Finally, it is necessary to mention that this agreement is part of the implementation Railroad Plans for Chilewhich seeks to expand the scope of rail services with a portfolio of projects aimed at doubling the number of passengers, to a total of 150 million, and doubling the load over the decade, strengthening regional connectivity in a safe, efficient and clean manner.