Ukrzaliznytsia and the European Railway Agency (ERA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to improve interoperability and safety of Ukrainian railway system. This agreement is a significant step towards the integration of the country’s railways into the European transport network in accordance with European standards.
The memorandum, signed by Yevhen Lyashchenko, the Chairman of the Board of Ukrzaliznytsia, and Josef Doppelbauer, the Executive Director of ERA, establishes the framework for technical cooperation.
The partnership is focused on the introduction and implementation of EU security and interoperability standards, in accordance with Ukraine’s obligations under the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU.
This memorandum is a continuation of close contacts and cooperation between ERA and Ukrzaliznytsia, which have been developing for a long time. The interaction is aimed at improving the safety, integration and interoperability of the Ukrainian railway system with the European network.
The main areas of cooperation include easing the implementation of European legislation on safety and technical standards of interoperability (TSI) of railways in Ukraine; the provision of support for ERTMS deployment and other EU standards; exchange of knowledge and best practices to facilitate Ukraine’s integration into the Single European Railway Area; and cooperation in the field of rolling stock, including issuing of certification, maintenance and mutual access to infrastructure.
This cooperation is especially important against the background of the expected adoption of the new law of Ukraine “On railway transport”, which will be key for further harmonisation of national legislation with EU standards. The memorandum also provides for technical support in the process of reforming the country’s railway industry, including initiatives related to safety management, certification and cross-border railway operations.
“The memorandum emphasizes our commitment to increasing the safety and efficiency of the Ukrainian railway system, as well as its integration with Europe. This partnership will speed up the alignment of our industry with EU standards, which will contribute to its modernisation,” Yevhen Lyashchenko said.
Thed memorandum also demonstrates Ukrzaliznytsia’s desire to increase the competitiveness of its railway system, while ensuring the highest safety standards, which will allow the company to become an important player in the European railway network.
This agreement aligns with the strategic framework between Ukraine and the European Union concerning the so-called Technical Pillar of railway operational legislation and will be coordinated alongside other arrangements and initiatives led by ERA with its various partners. Considering the ongoing railway reforms in Ukraine, the current agreement remains effective until 31 December 2027, with the possibility of prolongation.
“The Agency is honoured to provide expert support to Ukrainian Railways, coordinating activities in key areas such as railway safety, railways interoperability, and the adoption of EU legislation and standards within Ukraine’s rail sector,” Josef Doppelbauer said.
In August 2024, ERA and Ukraine’s Ministry of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development signed an Administrative Agreement to support technical harmonisation between the two rail systems. Under the agreement, ERA will provide expertise and technical support to Ukraine to become part of the Single European Railway Area. The two sides are committed to improve and harmonise standards, legislation and regulation on rail safety and interoperability, train drivers’ legislation as well as other issues. Under this agreement, a steering committee is to be established to set priorities and rolling plans in support of the overall objectives.
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