The Greek Parliament is set to approve a groundbreaking €308 million train deal, marking a significant leap forward in the country's transportation infrastructure. This deal, set to be finalized on Thursday, involves the transport ministry and Hellenic Train, an Italian-owned subsidiary of Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane. The agreement will bring a fleet of 23 brand-new electric trains to Greece's rail network, revolutionizing travel times and enhancing the overall efficiency of the country's transportation system.
The government's spokesperson, Pavlos Marinakis, highlighted the transformative impact of this investment. He stated that the first of these modern trains will be delivered by mid-2027, significantly reducing travel times on the Athens-Thessaloniki line to under three and a half hours. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering that Greece hasn't acquired new trains since the 2004 Olympic Games.
The €308 million investment is entirely funded by Hellenic Train, showcasing the commitment of the Italian company to Greece's transportation development. However, the total investment is projected to reach €420 million, fully covered by Italy's state budget, underscoring the magnitude of this project.
This deal is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the Greek government and Italian investors, aiming to modernize Greece's transportation infrastructure. By acquiring new trains, Greece is not only enhancing travel efficiency but also setting a precedent for future investments in the country's land transport sector.
