OREANDA-NEWS. September 08, 2009. Vladimir Yakunin spoke at the International Economic Forum, which took place in Alpbach, Austria. He gave a speech at the session of the working group entitled "Bringing together markets, bringing together continents – Logistics as an engine of growth", as well as at a special session entitled "Business culture and anti-crisis management in Europe – the European model of management", reported the press-centre of Russian Railways.

The main theme discussed at the logistics working group was the question of how to unite European markets to the benefit of all sides, especially in the current economic crisis conditions.
Vladimir Yakunin pointed out that the structure of the transport logistics market in Russia is significantly different to the normal international structure, as the proportion of logistics services in the country is around 17% of the total market, where as in the rest of the world it is around 52%.

"A key goal of our company is to create an effective logistics systems, elements of which will be integrated into the Russian and international transport systems," said Vladimir Yakunin. "By entering the logistics market, we plan to increase our competitiveness and make a serious statement about our aims not just to be a major transport company, but also to be one of the world’s leading logistics companies."

He specifically noted the "Trans-Siberia in 7 days" project, which is the calling card of Russian Railways and shows the potential of rail transit through Russia.

"Without access to the international transport and logistics market it is impossible to construct a full logistics chain," said Yakunin. "That is why Russian Railways is implementing a range of international infrastructure projects in Armenia, Mongolia, North Korea and Iran; improving rail-ferry services, financing sea ports; and investigating the possibility of lengthening wide-gauge rail tracks in Europe."

Russian Railways also plans to increase its presence in the contract logistics (3PL) sector, in order to increase its client base and effectively introduce rail transfers into the logistics chain.

In conclusion, Vladimir Yakunin expressed confidence that "the joint work of Russian and foreign transport-logistics companies will promote a broader long-term cooperation with the goal of developing mutually beneficial business in the Eurasian landmass."

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The European Forum in Alpbach has taken place every year in the Austrian town since 1945. Speakers and participants come from the fields of science, economics and politics and come to the forum from across the world to discuss key issues and jointly seek joined up solutions. Over time, over 3,000 people from 50 countries have accepted invitations to the forum.