Serbia unveiled a transformative infrastructure project on Friday as President Aleksandar Vucic inaugurated the Novi Sad-Subotica section of the Hungary-Serbia high-speed railway. Built by Chinese companies, this modern rail line marks a milestone in Central and Eastern Europe's connectivity under China's Belt and Road Initiative.
The inaugural train completed the Belgrade-Subotica journey in just over an hour, a route previously taking three hours. Vucic described the project as a "generational achievement," emphasizing its potential to reshape regional travel and commerce. By 2025, passengers will reportedly reach Budapest from Subotica in 95 minutes via the completed Hungarian section.
Key project highlights include:
200 km/h operational speed meeting EU technical standards
1,000+ local jobs created during construction
Advanced European Train Control System implementation
Environmental protection measures integrated into design
Chinese Ambassador Li Ming noted this represents China's first European high-speed rail project fully compliant with EU specifications. The 341.7 km cross-border route, with 183.1 km in Serbia, is expected to stimulate tourism and foreign investment while creating an economic corridor through northern Serbia.
Hungary's Deputy Transport Minister confirmed their section remains on track for 2025 completion, promising seamless connectivity between Belgrade and Budapest. The project underscores growing infrastructure collaboration between China and Central European nations.
