Largely financed through Chinese loans and built by Chinese state-owned enterprises in partnership with local contractors, the line carries strategic importance for China. The Budapest–Belgrade railway line, part of Corridor 10, has entered its decisive phase with the launch of technical certification on the Hungarian section. Since February 10, a special test train has been running between Budapest’s Soroksár district and Kelebia on the Serbian border to approve the line for speeds of up to 160 km/h. Speeds are being gradually increased through the end of February, with the main focus on implementing the European Train Control System (ETCS). Temporary restrictions at level crossings and on key roads in the area will remain in place until February 26. The Budapest–Belgrade railway is one of China’s most significant infrastructure projects in Europe and a flagship component of Beijing’s global Belt and Road Initiative. Largely financed through Chinese loans and built by Chinese state-owned enterprises in partnership with local contractors, the line carries strategic importance for China. It links the Greek port of Piraeus — operated by China’s COSCO — with Central Europe, accelerating overland transport of Chinese goods into the EU’s interior markets. Through this corridor, Beijing is consolidating its economic presence in the Balkans and Central Europe by combining infrastructure investment, state-backed financing and logistical leverage along supply chains. Once certification is completed, Hungarian State Railways will take over operations. The line is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two capitals and boost freight capacity from the Mediterranean to the heart of Europe. | BGNES
