EU Committee Backed New Rail Link to Thessaloniki
The parliamentary group approved a railway project connecting the Greek city to Central Europe via the Western Balkans.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Europe
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The EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee has unanimously adopted an amendment to advance a rail connection between Thessaloniki and Central Europe. This proposed route will integrate into the Trans-European Transport Network and Corridor X.
Why it matters
The project aims to improve regional connectivity and integrate the Western Balkans more deeply into European transport infrastructure. It is also expected to bolster the role of Greece as a key regional hub.
The committee reached a unanimous agreement during its 25th meeting to support the new rail line. The proposal specifically targets a path through Skopje, Ljubljana, and Vienna to bridge the gap between Southeast and Central Europe.
The players
EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee
This is a formal parliamentary body tasked with facilitating dialogue and cooperation between the European Union and North Macedonia.
Manolis Kefalogiannis
He is a Member of the European Parliament who tabled the amendment to support the expansion of the rail network.
The details
Proposed by MEP Manolis Kefalogiannis, the amendment calls for the swift completion of an agreement to solidify the infrastructure project. The rail link is designated as a critical component of Corridor X and the wider Trans-European Transport Network.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: The committee met in Skopje for its 25th session.
Travel Outlook
This rail initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize cross-border transport systems within the Trans-European Transport Network. By closing gaps in connectivity, it seeks to shift regional travel patterns away from legacy infrastructure towards more integrated European transit.
While the project is in the early legislative stages, travelers can eventually expect improved rail transit options between Thessaloniki and major Central European hubs. These connections will likely simplify cross-border logistics and reduce reliance on other transit methods in the Western Balkans.
The takeaway
The committee's unanimous vote underscores a regional commitment to bridging the infrastructure gap between Southeast and Central Europe. Future implementation of this rail link could transform how cargo and passengers move across these interconnected corridors.
Further reading
For more information on infrastructure developments in the region, visit our Europe section.
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