Transport sector rallies for stronger EU budget commitment

On 5 February 2025, Europe’s transport sector issued an open letter to EU Member States and the European Commission, emphasising the critical need to maintain and enhance a dedicated European transport funding instrument in the forthcoming EU budget. The sector warns against plans to divert significant portions of this funding towards National Single Plans, arguing that such a move could undermine the cohesion and efficiency of the EU’s internal market.

Historically, robust European networks have been pivotal in driving economic growth and job creation. The 1993 white paper by Jacques Delors highlighted the importance of connectivity, a sentiment echoed in recent reports by Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta. These documents stress that a well-integrated trans-European transport network is essential for economic development, social cohesion, and regional integration.

The open letter advocates for a unified, centrally managed investment approach, which is essential for addressing current challenges, including geopolitical tensions and climate change. A strong transport infrastructure is deemed crucial for enhancing military mobility, industrial competitiveness, and the EU’s strategic autonomy, especially concerning the supply of critical raw materials.

In light of these challenges, the transport sector calls for a flexible yet strategically planned EU budget that ensures long-term investments in transport infrastructure.

The letter concludes with a plea to EU Member States and the Commission to adopt an approach that reinforces European unity and strength, preserving a robust, centrally coordinated transport funding mechanism essential for the continent’s future prosperity and resilience.

To date 50 transport associations undersigned the letter.

Read it here.