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BANGKOK: The dream of connecting the entire continent of Asia by rail is one step closer to reality as an inter-governmental agreement marks a milestone in the ongoing project.
The UN Chief in Asia said increased trade within the region may be a key to economic recovery.
Although the global economic crisis has hit Asia full force, hope may be coming up the track.
The Trans Asian Railway spanning 114,000 kilometres and 28 countries is ever closer to being completed.
China became the eighth country to ratify the treaty, joining Cambodia, India, Mongolia, South Korea, Russia, Tajikistan and Thailand and 22 other signatories.
The United Nations hopes that it will form the backbone for intra-regional trade.
Barry Cable, director, Transport Division, said: "Already 106,000 kilometres are in operation, providing services at the international level. But still there remains some seven per cent or 8,300 kilometres to be constructed."
Currently, Asia's main trading partners are the US and the European Union. Exports to neighbouring countries only amount to 37 per cent of the total. More integrated economies could cushion against further economic shocks when export markets abroad dry up.
But the work is not finished yet. Nearly 10,000 kilometres of railroad need to be constructed to complete the Trans Asian Railraod at a cost of US$25 billion, but funding for these so called "missing links" remains a critical constraint.
Member states, international development banks and the private sector will all collaborate to prioritise investment needs.
Noeleen Heyzer, executive secretary, UNESCAP, said: "While the sums of money involved may be high, the returns on investment will be greater. Enhancing trade will help jump start many of our economies. Building the necessary rail infrastructure will create employment opportunities in remote areas at a time with jobs are desperately needed."
The UN said that governments are quickly realising their roads are not sufficient to handle their transportation needs and volatile oil prices make overland shipping costly.
Rail is another way to link capitals and less developed rural areas while also being a green and non-polluting mode of transport. - CNA/vm
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