Germany seeks India's help in constructing freight rail routes

New Delhi, Apr 10 (UNI) Germany has sought India's assistance for developing its fast-track rail freight route and, at the same time, beckoned Indian investments for developing its eastern region.

The two countries have also decided to consider setting up a Joint Working Group (JWG) to work out modalities for the fast-track railway freight route covering 1,600 km, including 900 km from North to South and 700 km from West to East.

A high-powered delegation of the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and urban Affairs, led by the State Secretary of the Federal Ministry, Dr Engelbert Lutke Daldrup, currently in India, met Railway Minister Lalu Prasad and senior officials and held discussions on various aspects.

Federal Ministry spokesman Rainer Lingenthal told a select group of journalists here that India had vast experience in development of railways and tracks and Germany would immesnely benefit from Indian experience.

In return, Germany was looking for Indian investments in Eastern Germany which can provide Indian entrepreneurs a window for Europe.

He said freight transport in Germany was expected to triple in the next 10-15 years and Indian experience and expertise will be of immense help.

''We could learn from your experience of dedicated freight corridors,'' he said.

Later, releasing a report on 'Eastern Germany as a Location for Indian Direct Investment', Dr Daldrup said, India is developing into a global economic power with its businesses displaying great dynamism.

''As they head to Europe, they will find that Federal States of Eastern Germany present attractive arguments for selecting a location at the heart of European Union,'' he added.

UNI RB PDT DS1435