Russia shows interest in the privatization of TRAINOSE
Russia has expressed its provisional interest in the privatization of Greek train operator TRAINOSE during a recent meeting between Russian Transport Minister Maksim Sokolov and Greek Development Minister Costis Hatzidakis in Athens.
Sokolov confirmed the interest of Russian Railways in the Greek company, but said “it is still too early to talk about the procedure. Let the tender be proclaimed first and then we will review our interest.” He also implied that Athens is inclined to involve the Russian side in the process.
Hatzidakis said that the meeting was part of early talks with the Russian minister in the context of preliminary contact with parties interested in the TRAINOSE privatization. He added that the tender process will begin in June with the proclamation.
The government’s aim is to find an investor for the train operator who will not just have the capital to invest, but also experience and a strategic interest in railway transport.
Apart from the Russian Railways company, Athens has also been in talks with China’s Cosco, and the national rail companies of France and Germany.
