A panel discussion on public-private partnership in the transport sector was held at the International Forum "Transport of Russia." Participants explored ways to establish effective collaboration between government authorities and investors to accelerate the modernization and expansion of the country’s transport infrastructure.
The discussion brought together representatives of federal agencies and top executives from leading transportation companies.
Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Saveliev stated that Russia has now joined the ranks of countries building high-speed rail lines using domestic technologies and materials. According to him, the presidentially approved program for constructing five high-speed rail lines will have a lasting positive impact on both population mobility and regional economic development.
His government colleague, Marat Khusnullin, noted the significant pace of road construction achieved under the national project “Safe and Quality Roads,” whose targets have already been exceeded. At the same time, he emphasized that contracting organizations are facing mounting pressure due to inflation and rising costs.
Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin reported that investment volumes in transport infrastructure have increased twelvefold over the past two decades, with two-thirds of these funds now coming from private companies and investors. The minister urged greater development of the capital market as a source of long-term financing for large-scale infrastructure initiatives.
Oleg Belozerov, CEO of Russian Railways (RZD), stressed the importance of ensuring stable operations of the railway system and maintaining close cooperation with government bodies. He also reminded participants that RZD remains one of the largest private investors in infrastructure projects.
Vyacheslav Petushenko, Chairman of the Management Board of Avtodor Group, identified concession mechanisms as a key instrument for implementing major transport projects. He called for improvements to the relevant legislation and for greater involvement of retail (individual) investors in project financing.
For his part, Sergey Shishkarev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Delo Group, underscored the vital role of the private sector in developing port and terminal infrastructure. He added that the company continues to invest in port modernization, terminal construction, and the acquisition of modern equipment.