On April 10–11, this year’s IBS workshop took place at Latvijas Dzelzceļš (Latvian Railways) in Riga. The two-day event focused on new cooperation models and strategies to strengthen rail freight in the Baltic region and beyond.
IBS Chairman Olaf Krüger opened the workshop with a clear statement:
“We choose the locations of our congresses very deliberately – where we see potential for new business opportunities. Beyond the challenges posed by the war in Ukraine, it is primarily differing rail systems such as track gauges and wagon standards that continue to limit connectivity. Our goal is to present solutions and development opportunities from both the public and private sectors – and this is exactly where the strength of IBS lies.”
Rinalds Pļavnieks, Member of the Board of Latvijas Dzelzceļš, also emphasized the need for strategic transformation:
“Like many other European railway companies, the railway in Latvia is undergoing a transformation. We are evolving from a traditional East–West transit corridor into a provider of passenger, freight, and military transport. To support this shift, we need new cooperation models that are adapted to today’s realities.”
With over 60 participants from the Baltic States, Germany, Finland, and other European countries, the workshop sent a strong signal for international cooperation. Among the attendees were companies from the rail freight, logistics, port terminal, forwarding, and industrial sectors.
The results of the workshop will be further discussed at a dedicated IBS side event on June 4 during the Transport Logistic trade fair.
We look forward to continuing the dialogue – more information to follow.
Pictures of: Aleksandra Röhricht and Kristīna Jansone
