点は## China-Europe Freight Train Hits Major Milestone: 100,000 Trips and Counting
Duisburg, Germany – This week, a historic milestone was reached as the 100,000th China-Europe freight train arrived in Duisburg, Germany. This remarkable achievement highlights the rapidly growing importance of this rail link in bridging East and West.
This particular train, bearing the designation X8083, originated in Chongqing, China, and arrived at Duisburg’s bustling intermodal terminal at 9:10 AM local time. Its cargo included a variety of goods, ranging from electronics and industrial parts to everyday household appliances, destined for distribution across Europe.
[Image of the 100,000th arrival at Duisburg terminal: Embed original image here]
Duisburg, once renowned for its steel industry, has transformed into a significant gateway for international trade between Europe and Asia. The China-Europe freight trains – often referred to as "steel camels" due to their imposing size and tireless journeys – play a crucial role in this shift.
Upon reaching their destination, the freight trains don’t just bring goods; they also transport European products back to Asia, further strengthening the economic ties between the two continents.
[Image of a staff member near the arriving train: Embed original image here]
Chang Haitao, acting Consul General of China in Düsseldorf, celebrated this milestone during a reception at Duisburg’s terminal.
“The service has enhanced transport efficiency and trade ties, showcasing the Belt and Road Initiative’s role in fostering connectivity," he said.
Looking towards the future, Chang emphasized the service’s potential to continue promoting collaboration and progress:
"The China-Europe freight train will remain a catalyst for openness and partnership, fueling enhanced connectivity across Eurasia and fostering sustained global economic development."
Markus Teuber, the China affairs commissioner for the City of Duisburg, echoed Chang’s sentiment, highlighting the mutual benefits of this developing partnership:
“The train connection has definitely led to a win-win situation for both countries," he shared, adding his confidence that the service will continue to thrive.
Markus Bangen, CEO of Duisburger Hafen AG (Duisport), which operates the port of Duisburg, emphasized the broader economic impact of the railway service:
“The railway service is strengthening ties between Europe and China, opening up a new international transport market that benefits both economies.”
Duisburg itself grows as a key stop along the route, attracting investment and opening up new employment opportunities within the logistics sector.
Remarkably, since the service’s inception in 2016, annual train operations have surged from a modest 1,702 trips to over 17,000 trips, with notable improvements in transit times.
Tian Zhongyu, general manager of China Railway Container Transport Co., Ltd Europe Subsidiary, highlighted these achievements, noting that the time required to operate 10,000 trains has been significantly reduced – from 90 months to just six months.
This growth has had a domino effect on the surrounding region. Duisburg Port has become a magnet for over 100 logistics companies and created more than 20,000 jobs since the trains starting running.
[Images of the 100,000th train arriving, Duisburg terminal, and a staff photo: Embed original images here]
The China-Europe freight train represents more than just a transportation solution; it’s a symbol of growing cooperation and shared prosperity between continents. As this "steel camel" continues its journey, it carries with it the promise of increased trade, stronger connections, and a more interconnected world.
