Lebanon's new leadership seeks to revive its defunct railway network to reconnect with neighboring Syria and Iraq while positioning itself as a potential link in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).  The country's railway system, which once connected Beirut to Damascus and Haifa in Ottoman-era Palestine, was rendered inoperative following the outbreak of Lebanon's 15-year civil war in 1975, destroying much of the already underfunded network. Several plans have been put in over the years to reboot the defunct system, but all have failed to materialize. Despite repeated calls for the railway system restoration, successive governments have failed to act due to political instability, security concerns, and the financial crisis that deepened in 2019.  Carlos Naffa, head of the pro-rail advocacy group “Train Train,” has been at the forefront of efforts to revive Lebanon's railway infrastructure. He explained to IntelliNews the historical significance of the railway, recalling that the first official train journey from Beirut to Damascus took place on August 3, 1895.  Naffa said, "The volume of Arab transit trade, estimated by numerous sources to exceed $200bn annually, cannot be monopolized by any regional facility." He noted "The ESCWA Corridor agreement signed in 2003 would serve the European economy and enhance transit movement, especially with the anticipated growth of the global economy in 2026 and the increasing volume of trade," Naffa explained.  He said that the growing exchange routes, primary lines, and industrial assembly between the East, whether in India or China, and the West, represented by European industrial nations, highlight the urgent need to implement the ESCWA Corridor agreement.  Consequently, Beirut and Tripoli ports can complement and compete with regional ports, to support global trade and strengthen regional transport. To push for action, “Train Train” has developed a comprehensive transport plan to link all Lebanon regions.  The proposal, which will be submitted to newly selected President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, advocates for public-private partnerships to finance and implement the railway restoration. Naffa believes the project could be crucial to Lebanon's economic recovery by improving regional connectivity and attracting foreign investment.  China's BRI has been a significant source of global infrastructure investment, with the Middle East receiving the largest share of China's $22bn investments in the first half of 2022. While BRI spending saw a slight decline, 57% of total funding was directed towards the region, with Saudi Arabia as the largest recipient.  The railway project presents a critical opportunity for Lebanon's economic recovery. Advocates argue that rehabilitating the rail network could enhance trade, facilitate mobility, and integrate Lebanon into regional transport networks. The project also aligns with China's vision for economic corridors, potentially positioning Lebanon as a key transit hub for international trade.  Despite growing international interest, particularly from French, Chinese, Spanish, Italian and other global firms, Lebanon's railway revival faces significant hurdles. Political instability, financial constraints, and governmental reluctance have hindered progress. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: intellinews.com