# European Union railway modernization efforts > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-union-railway-modernization-efforts > Updated: 2026-09-24T17:12:59.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. During the InnoTrans trade fair in Berlin, European Union officials outlined strategic goals for modernizing the continent's rail network. EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas emphasized a vision centered on safety, innovation, and competitiveness. Key objectives include expanding high-speed rail, strengthening passenger rights, and removing barriers to create a unified European railway market. A specific focus has been placed on simplifying cross-border travel through a ‘one journey, one booking’ ticketing system. The European Commission has proposed that major platforms offer tickets from various operators to improve accessibility. In Germany, the situation regarding infrastructure remains a point of discussion. Federal Minister of Transport Steffen Bilger noted that current rail network renovations have not yet met expectations, leading Deutsche Bahn to revise its strategy and timelines for large-scale corridor renovations planned through the mid-2030s. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-24: Apostolos Tzitzikostas outlines vision for European railways at InnoTrans 2026 At InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin, Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas outlined plans to modernize European railways through high-speed connections, market integration, and enhanced passenger rights. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/apostolos-tzitzikostas-outlines-vision-for-european-railways-at-innotrans-2026 ### 2026-09-22: EU officials call for unified rail ticketing at Innotrans EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas called for unified European rail ticketing, while German Transport Minister Steffen Bilger criticized the effectiveness of current rail network renovations. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-officials-call-for-unified-rail-ticketing-at-innotrans --- Cite as: European Union railway modernization efforts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-union-railway-modernization-efforts