In its recent White Paper on the future of Transport, the European Commission sets as an objective that the length of the existing EU high-speed rail network should triple by 2030 and that the majority of medium-distance passengers transport should go by rail by 2050.

 
In the wider context of improving cohesion within Europe, high-speed can play a key role.

• How will the current gap between the Western and Central-Eastern European high-speed networks be bridged?
 
• How can we counter the emergence of high-speed deserts or islands?
 
• What level of modal shift have existing high-speed lines achieved so far and what is the modal shift potential for new lines?
 
• How will member states and the EU ensure that the development of high-speed rail will not be done at the expense of conventional passenger services but will rather enhance it?
 
The Polish Presidency and CER in co-operation with the EPP political group of the European Parliament have invited personalities from the EU institutions and the rail sector to reflect on these questions. We look forward to seeing you there too.

 
Following the event, participants will be invited to continue discussions at an informal cocktail.