Deutsche Bahn is increasing its general presence in China. In the course of Chancellor Dr Merkel’s visit to the country, agreements were signed in Beijing on the 13 June with the aim of expanding projects in the rail sector.
Speaking in Beijing, Chairman of the Management Board and CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG Dr. Rüdiger Grube said, ‘The People’s Republic of China is an important market for us and will remain so in future. In view of the plans to invest more than 300 billion euros in transport infrastructure, we wish to benefit from the growth and potential in China. Our expertise is in high demand and our successful international activities also strengthen our position in our home market of Germany.’
Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed earlier this month, one of which was with the Chinese rolling stock manufacturer CRRC (China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation) confirming continuation of the parties’ cooperation in the establishment and optimization of a maintenance system for high-speed multiple units and the provision of mutual support in remedying operating problems related to wheel-on-rail contact. Essentially this means that CR’s approximately 19,000 km long high- speed network and fleet of 1,400 trains will be provided by DB with maintenance and repair support.
DB has been active in China since 1966. DB Schenker alone has more than 5,000 employees in the country. Amongst other things, DB was involved in the construction of Metro Shanghai, the development of the high-speed network and the Transrapid in Shanghai.
