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The 35th General Assembly of UNIFE, the association of the European rail industry, took place in Brussels. The event focused on growth and the re-election of the association’s presidency. Martin Sion (left), the new CEO of Alstom, took over the position from Michael Peter (right), the CEO of Siemens, who held the presidency for three years. Both leaders emphasized the need for close collaboration among members to promote the growth of the industry.
During discussion rounds, known as „Discovery Cafés,“ UNIFE members were asked about their views on the competitiveness of the European rail industry. Participants called for a simplification of regulations and a more aggressive EU export strategy. It was also emphasized that European institutions must continue to work on harmonizing legislation, as national fragmentations hinder the EU’s internal market.
UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe chaired the assembly and highlighted the new constructive spirit observed in both the rail sector and the dialogue with policymakers. He stressed that the political visibility of the European rail industry has been strengthened, but concrete measures are now required to ensure competitiveness.
During the General Assembly, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, met with industry representatives and engaged in a constructive dialogue about strengthening competitiveness. An institutional panel discussion also featured Magda Kopczyńska, Director General of DG MOVE of the European Commission, Oana Gherghinescu, Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways, and Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director of the European Rail Joint Undertaking.
The assembly concluded with the admission of three new full members: Magellan (United Kingdom), Teltronic (Spain), and Zonegreen (Sentric Safety Group, United Kingdom). Additionally, the Polska Izba Kolei (Polish Chamber of Railways) was admitted as an associate member. Furthermore, Rome was approved as the host city for the 2027 General Assembly, which will take place on June 9 and 10.
Wiebe thanked Peter for his commitment and support over the past three years and expressed optimism about the prospects that Sion will bring in his new role. Sion himself emphasized the importance of the rail industry for Europe’s strategic agenda and the necessity of translating ambitions into concrete investments to ensure the competitiveness of European supply chains.
Peter pointed out that the rail industry has successfully positioned itself at the center of the EU’s competitiveness and resilience agenda over the past three years. He emphasized that EU policy is increasingly focused on strengthening the industrial base.
