A closer look now at the Hungary-Serbia railway - construction for which is due to be completed in 2018. The project was jointly announced by China, Hungary and Serbia in 2013. The railway will connect the capitals of Hungary and Serbia, Budapest and Belgrade. Just how significant is it to both countries and their people?

It used to be a vital stop of the famous orient express, connecting Paris and Istanbul, in the late 19th century. However, with years of wars, the Belgrade railway station was completely devastated. But with investment and support from China, it's been given a new lease on life.

"Serbia's railway has a history of over forty years, It's been neglected a lot in the past few years, but to our delight, with more investment and support, we managed to connect Serbia with other parts of the European land, bringing it closer to central Europe," said Serbian railway staff.    

The railway linking the capitals of Hungary and Serbia, will total 350 kilometers, with 184 km in Serbia.

It is designed for electrified passenger and cargo trains with a maximum speed of 200 km per hour.

Upon its completion, travelling time by train between Budapest and Belgrade will be reduced from eight hours to less than three. Obvious transport eficiency aside, it will also roll in economic benefits.

"The Hungary-Serbia railway is expected to connect the economy and industry centres of Serbia. The number of passengers is expected to reach four million compared to the current one million, and at the same time we can also witness a boost in cargo transportation as well," staff said.

Serbia's deputy prime minister has always been an active supporter of the rail project, and she sees special significance in China's involvement.

"The modernization of Serbia's railway will reconnect us with EU countries, making us a traffic hub. The project will elevate the status of Serbia. And we're very delighted to see China's interest in making Serbia its interchange station between China and Europe. It means so much to us. The route passing Serbia is the most effective and economical one connecting east and west," said Zorana Mihajlovic, Serbian Deputy Minister.

She sees the railway as a corridor for efficient access between China and Europe marking a new beginning of the pragmatic cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries.

The railway is also hoped to enhance the European integration process. As well as better dovetail the development strategies of China and Europe to bring benefits to all.