This Isn't Just 'Running Trains'! Greek Scholar Praises China-Europe Railway's Contribution to Supply Chain Stability

August 6, 2025 - China Daily

On August 3, the China-Europe Railway, or the "Middle Route," reached a milestone with its cumulative freight volume surpassing 20,000 trains. This achievement marks a significant step forward in global logistics and trade.

Greek Scholar Highlights the Importance of the China-Europe Railway

Dr. Yiannis Kotras, a visiting lecturer in geopolitics at the University of Athens, recently wrote in China Daily that since its launch in 2011, the China-Europe Railway has played a vital role in promoting innovation and economic connectivity. He emphasized that the railway is now a key driver of economic cooperation, regional integration, and geopolitical stability between nations.

Growing Significance of the China-Europe Railway

The article highlights that the China-Europe Railway was integrated into the Belt and Road Initiative in 2013, becoming a crucial logistics corridor connecting Asia and Europe. As an essential bridge between the economies of Eurasia, the railway has significantly improved transportation and logistics across the continent, boosting regional economic development, enhancing infrastructure and human capital, and fostering a sense of shared goals through economic complementarity and collaboration.

The railway is also a vital tool for addressing geopolitical challenges, optimizing transport routes, and offering diverse freight options. In terms of delivery time, it outperforms maritime shipping, making its value undeniable.

Positive Impact on Economic Growth and Urban Development

The article notes that the benefits of the China-Europe Railway extend beyond trade. It has spurred urban development along its route, transforming cities into key economic hubs and centers of industrial concentration. These cities attract a large number of skilled professionals and promote technological innovation. Companies involved in railway construction have also improved their production systems and economic output.

Stability Amid Geopolitical Turmoil

In recent times, geopolitical tensions and disruptions in maritime routes, such as the Red Sea, have had a major impact on shipping. The China-Europe Railway has emerged as a critical link in maintaining the stability of Eurasian supply chains. With rising costs in maritime shipping, the railway has become an essential lifeline for the continent's economic continuity.

During the Red Sea crisis, the China-Europe Railway served as a "land-based stabilizer," ensuring the vitality of the European economy. Trains departing from cities like Xi'an in China have set new records, underscoring the effectiveness of the "land and sea combined" model.

Significance for Economic Cooperation

The article further emphasizes that the sustainable development of the China-Europe Railway is crucial for promoting bilateral trade growth and meeting the growing freight demands of Eurasia. It has the potential to become one of the most sustainable long-distance transportation methods between Europe and Asia, complementing maritime and air transport.

With ongoing expansion projects, the railway's freight efficiency is expected to improve significantly. The China-EU economic relationship, a cornerstone of Eurasian economic order and a vital component of global power balance, has seen substantial growth in trade volume, with China and the EU being the world's top and second-largest trading partners.

Strengthening Cooperation for a Shared Future

As global economic challenges continue to rise, enhancing cooperation between China and Europe is essential for safeguarding mutual economic interests, restoring confidence in the world economic system, and ensuring long-term global growth and stability. The China-Europe Railway is poised to become a highly beneficial and mutually advantageous trade corridor.

This article was originally published in the China Daily Smart Hub section.