The Hague has taken an important step towards restoring a direct train connection with Brussels. On Wednesday 7 October, businesses, knowledge institutions, international organisations and public authorities jointly signed the manifesto ‘The Hague Chooses International Connectivity’. Economic Board The Hague (EBTH) supports this ambition and has been working with partners for several years to improve the city’s international accessibility.
As the international city of peace and justice, The Hague has strong ties with Europe. Hundreds of international organisations, knowledge institutions and businesses work closely with European partners every day. A direct train connection with Brussels is therefore essential to strengthening the city’s international business climate, economic competitiveness and sustainable mobility.
Joining forces to improve international connectivity
As an independent think tank and driving force behind The Hague’s economy, Economic Board The Hague has long advocated better international rail connections. Through initiatives such as The Hague Connected, the Board brings together major employers and knowledge institutions in the city to put international accessibility firmly on the agenda.
The signing of the manifesto once again demonstrates the broad support for this ambition across the city. At the same time, the Municipality of The Hague is launching a market consultation to explore opportunities for a direct connection with Brussels in cooperation with international rail operators. The city is working towards 2029, when the Netherlands will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
International connectivity as a driver of economic growth
Economic Board The Hague considers international accessibility essential to building a strong and future-proof local economy. A direct connection with Brussels would create opportunities for international businesses, knowledge institutions and the conference sector. Improved rail connections would also make sustainable international travel a more attractive option.
Recent developments in the international rail market indicate growing momentum. The manifesto and market consultation represent another step towards seizing these opportunities together and further strengthening The Hague’s international position.
Photo: From left to right: Harry Wientjens (Chair of Economic Board The Hague), Adeel Mahmood (Alderman for Mobility), Christel Mourik (Managing Director of the Rotterdam The Hague Metropolitan Area) and Michiel Middendorf (Board Member of Economic Board The Hague).
