Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, said it has signed a strategic agreement with Saudi Railway Company for setting up a framework for the exchange of services, training, and knowledge transfer.
 
The strategic agreement will support identifying future initiatives, such as those in the field of technology and procurement, ensuring training curricula are up-to-date, optimal maintenance times, and other programs that enhance information exchange within the logistics and mobility sector, said the statement from Etihad Rail.
 
In addition, the agreement facilitates the leasing of locomotives, the exchange of spare parts, as well as the training of engineers and students in operational processes and the further development of competencies in various technical fields, it added.
 
This is of strategic importance, due to the close ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, under the wise and visionary leadership within both countries, stated Etihad Rail CEO Shadi Malak after signing the deal with Saudi Railway Company CEO Dr Bashar Al Malik in the presence of officials from both entities.
 
The agreement focuses on four key areas of cooperation including locomotives and wagons lease arrangements, spare parts purchase, special volunteer groups and shared services initiatives, he stated.
 
"It will further expand the close relationship between the two entities through continuous cooperation, which inturn will shape the future of the rail transport and logistics sector across the GCC region," he added.
 
According to him, the pact is aligned to Etihad Rail’s strategic role in the development of the UAE’s logistics and mobility sector.
 
"We look to contribute to the ongoing comprehensive development process aimed at achieving the UAE’s economic vision and government strategies, while optimally using available resources and capabilities," he added.
 
On the Etihad Rail tieup, Al Malik said: "Such a partnership is nurtured by both nations’ continued cooperation, and their mutual vision for the integration of our transportation sectors. This is particularly pertinent for the rail sector, which offers a pivotal role in wider social and economic development."
 
"It demonstrates the Saudi Railway Company’s integral role in the development of the kingdom, working to achieve the targets of Vision 2030 and provide a global logistic service for the kingdom," noted the top official.
 
Etihad Rail started construction of Stage Two of the UAE’s national railway network in early 2020.
 
The project extends from Al Ghuwaifat on the borders of Saudi Arabia to the emirate of Fujairah, on the eastern coast.
 
Upon completion, Stage Two will link the nation’s ports, manufacturing hubs, and urban centres and integrate with the GCC’s railway network.
 
"The pact further indicates how we seek to provide safe and reliable transport solutions, as well launching shared procurement services. Leasing of trains and vehicles, and the provision of spare maintenance parts, contributes to further sectorial development opportunities," remarked Al Malik.
 
"It also enhances the use of our national capabilities and expertise: characteristic of Saudi Railway Company’s wider ethos. Having rigorously implemented international standards, it has enabled new partnerships, providing training and services for local and regional transport companies," he added.-TradeArabia News Service

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