Dear Colleagues!

On behalf of the Board of JSC Russian Railways, I would like to welcome the delegates, guests and organizers of the II International regional rail business forum "1520 Strategic Partnership: Baltic region"!

The financial and economic crisis, as well straining the transport systems of the “1520 area”, once again assured us that the Baltic region has been and remains a key element of the Eurasian economic cooperation. At that the efficiency of fulfilling its immense transit potential largely depends on the ability of all market participants to cooperate with each other.

It would be impossible to enhance the competitiveness of the transport and logistics complex of the Baltics without the upgrade of the railway infrastructure, introduction of innovation, consolidation of efforts with partners in the "wide" gauge. It is the focus on developing long-term competitive advantages and strengthening historical trade and economic ties in the region that would form a solid ground for a truly efficient transport partnership.

I am convinced that the II International regional rail business forum "1520 Strategic Partnership: Baltic region" in Tallinn will be an important event for the industry, that will help identify further steps to promote the cooperation of all participants interested in the development of the railway system, based on 1520 mm gauge.

I urge you to actively participate in debates and discussions, seminars and roundtables. Your opinions, experience and expectations are extremely important for the further development of the whole transport industry, of a truly convenient and efficient form of cooperation between all the participants of the transport process.

On behalf of the Board of JSC Russian Railways and myself, I wish all the participants of this meeting fruitful deliberations!