UNIFE and APTA sign Memorandum of Understanding

The European Rail Industry Association (UNIFE) and the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to reinforce ties between the European and American rail sectors.

The MoU was signed last evening by Philippe Citroën (Director General of UNIFE) and Michael Melaniphy (President and CEO of APTA) at a reception hosted by the European Union Delegation to the United States in Washington. This agreement outlines a framework for cooperation and information exchange between the two associations. The signing of this MoU will be followed by meetings throughout the week between APTA, UNIFE, and their members on a number of topics.

Philippe Citroën commented, “UNIFE is very pleased to formally establish a link with APTA, and we look forward to continued collaboration on our shared challenges. In addition to sharing many of the same members, APTA and UNIFE have the common goal of promoting rail and public transportation as a solution to future mobility challenges. This MoU follows in the footsteps of an existing MoU between the Federal Railroad Administration and the European Rail Agency signed in 2012 and will add to the transatlantic dialogue and best practice sharing in the domain of rail transport.”

Michael Melaniphy said: “APTA is delighted to work closely with UNIFE, and we look forward to close cooperation and collaboration as both organizations work to advance rail transportation. The European and United States rail sectors have much to learn from each other. This Memorandum of Understanding facilitates the sharing of best practices and the robust exchange of information in technical and policy areas.”