Lebanon is working to restore its railway network to reconnect with Syria and Iraq and enhance its role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Advocacy group leader Carlos Naffa emphasizes the historical significance of the rail system and the urgent need for its restoration, which could boost the economy and improve regional trade connections. Recent government discussions suggest potential movement toward revitalizing this critical infrastructure, although challenges remain.
Lebanon’s leadership is endeavoring to restore its dormant railway infrastructure to reconnect with Syria and Iraq, aiming to position the nation as a crucial link in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Historically, Lebanon’s railway system connected Beirut to Damascus and Haifa, but civil war rendered it inoperative. Despite numerous proposals to revitalize this infrastructure, political instability, security issues, and financial crises have thwarted progress since 2019.
Carlos Naffa, leader of the advocacy group “Train Train,” is actively promoting the railway revival. He emphasizes the significant historical role of the rail system, recalling its first operation on August 3, 1895. Naffa has criticized past governments for corruption and mismanagement, particularly highlighting neglect following the Beirut Port explosion and urging the need for formal international studies to guide the project’s revival.
Naffa has stated that the Arab transit trade is substantial, surpassing $200 billion annually, and cannot be monopolized by singular regional entities. The ESCWA Corridor agreement of 2003 is vital for enhancing European transit, particularly as global trade is anticipated to expand by 2026. The development of Beirut and Tripoli ports could foster competition amongst regional ports, enhancing Lebanon’s ability to participate in global trade.
To facilitate this vision, Train Train is proposing a comprehensive transport plan that will connect all regions of Lebanon. This proposal will be presented to the new President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, advocating for partnerships to finance the railway restoration which could significantly boost Lebanon’s economy by enhancing regional connectivity and attracting investment.
The BRI has emerged as a predominant source of global infrastructure funding, with significant investments directed toward the Middle East. The restoration of Lebanon’s rail network could provide an opportunity to rejuvenate the economy by enhancing trade and mobility, while aligning with China’s plans for economic corridors. However, the project faces considerable challenges, including political instability and governmental hesitance.
While there has been some willingness among parliamentary blocs to engage with foreign investors, discussions remain hidden due to entrenched political interests. The National Network for Transport Justice, comprised of civil society organizations, is monitoring the integrity of transport projects. Naffa insists on the importance of a sustainable, long-term plan for the railway that ensures economic growth and social equity, potentially linking Beirut with key areas and integrating with transport networks in surrounding countries.
Recent developments indicate potential progress; officials have expressed commitment to rejuvenating the railway system, aiming to reconnect Beirut with Tripoli and further link with Syria and Iraq. Sajee Atiyya, chairman of the Public Works Committee, reiterated the importance of this initiative, hopeful that with President Aoun’s election, the long-planned project will finally advance.
The revival of Lebanon’s railway network presents a transformative opportunity for the nation’s economy and regional connectivity. Through strategic partnerships and international cooperation, Lebanon could reestablish itself as a vital transit hub within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Despite the challenges faced, recent governmental support offers a glimmer of hope for the realization of this essential infrastructure project.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
