Aragón y Andalucía firman protocolo para la carretera de ferrocarril con apoyo «seguro»

The regional presidents of Aragon, Jorge Azón, and Andalusia, Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla, signed a protocol on Friday in Zaragoza to stimulate the construction work of the Algeciras-Zaragoza railway, which will connect North Africa from Morocco to Europe through Andalusia, Madrid, and Zaragoza by 2027. The President of the Aragon government, Jorge Azón, stated that the Spanish government, led by Pedro Sánchez, supports «this secure infrastructure.»

Following an exchange of gifts, including an original Rail Piece-1928 from the Canfranc railway line in Huesca, Aragon, and an Alhambra from Andalusia, Azón and Moreno Bonilla signed the protocol at the Column Chamber of the Pignatelli Building. Azón expressed the importance of cooperation and collaboration between the two regions for the common goals related to communication and infrastructure.

The leaders emphasized the significance of the Central Crossing Project (TCP) and the need to accelerate the construction of the railway to improve logistics and transportation between the communities. They highlighted the role of Aragon as a logistical powerhouse, producing 7.7% of the regional GDP and playing a crucial part in Spain’s logistics sector due to its strategic location and resources.

The construction of the railway, spanning 1,048 kilometers, will not only boost the country’s development but also connect Africa and Europe, transcending the interests of the autonomous communities. The EU’s target for 2050 to have 45% of cargo traffic carried by railways underscores the urgency to expedite infrastructure projects like the Algeciras-Zaragoza railway.

Moreno Bonilla praised the progress and innovation resulting from the collaboration between the two regions, highlighting the positive impact on citizens’ well-being. The protocol signifies a renewed commitment to the railway project, with a focus on sustainability, climate change mitigation, and breaking down geographical barriers between regions.

The event was attended by key ministers from Andalusia and Aragon, reinforcing the importance of government support and coordination for the successful implementation of the railway project. The joint efforts and investment in infrastructure aim to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and strengthen ties between the regions for a prosperous future.

FUENTE