by EH
In a striking testament to the power of logistics to transform economies, the Port of Trieste and Slovakia are redefining intermodal connections in Europe, charting a course for stronger economic and commercial ties. This burgeoning partnership was spotlighted during an event titled “Port of Trieste – Slovakia: Economic Relations and Opportunities,”held Friday at the historic Torre del Lloyd in Trieste.
Over the past seven years, the Port of Trieste has witnessed a dramatic surge in rail traffic to Slovakia. In 2016, the inaugural direct trains to Dunajská Streda laid the groundwork for what has now become a thriving trade artery. By 2023, over 400 trains had transported approximately 27,500 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), underscoring the growing importance of this corridor in European logistics.
Now, port officials and Slovak representatives are setting their sights even higher: 500 trains annually by 2025, more than tripling the volume from 2017.
A Strategic Corridor in a Shifting Europe
The discussions at Torre del Lloyd showcased the Central Adriatic Corridor’s growing relevance in European geopolitics. For Slovakia, a landlocked nation keen on diversifying its trade routes, Trieste’s deepwater port provides vital access to Mediterranean and global markets.
Vittorio Torbianelli, the Extraordinary Commissioner of the Port Network Authority of the Eastern Adriatic Sea, called the rail expansion “a strategic element in strengthening logistical and economic relations between Friuli Venezia Giulia and Slovakia.” He added, “Looking ahead, we must also consider Slovakia’s role as a gateway to Ukraine, positioning this corridor as crucial for Europe’s future.”
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Slovakia’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Denisa Žiláková, Slovak Ambassador to Italy Karla Matiaško Wursterová, and Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Regional Councillor for Productive Activities and Tourism, Sergio Emidio Bini.
Ambitious Goals Amid Global Challenges
Since its launch, the Trieste-Slovakia rail line has evolved from three rotations per week to five. Upcoming expansions aim to push these numbers even higher, cementing Slovakia’s position as a key trading partner.
Antonio Gurrieri, CEO of Alpe Adria, a leading operator of intermodal logistics, emphasized the significance of this growth. “With nearly 6,000 trains operated annually, Alpe Adria continues to lead Europe’s intermodal transport sector. Slovakia is a key market, and we are committed to further strengthening this corridor,” Gurrieri said.
Despite the optimism, 2024 has not been without hurdles. Geopolitical tensions have strained supply chains across the globe, complicating international trade. Yet, both nations remain committed to bolstering ties.
A Vision for the Future
The partnership between the Port of Trieste and Slovakia transcends mere freight volumes. It reflects a broader vision of European connectivity. Participants at the event pointed to Slovakia’s potential role in the reconstruction of Ukraine, highlighting the importance of robust infrastructure in times of geopolitical flux.
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, with officials pledging to deepen their collaboration. In doing so, they aim to turn the Port of Trieste into a hub of global commerce and solidify Slovakia’s position as a key player in Central European trade.
As the trains continue to roll, carrying goods across borders, they represent more than just commerce—they symbolize a Europe striving to stay connected in a rapidly changing world.
