Europe proposes 33.5 billion euros for transport projects

   The European Parliament’s transport and industry committees have reached a partial agreement by vote this week with the European Council for a budget of 33.5 billion euros to be spent on transportation projects during 2021 to 2027.
   The funding will support the European Union’s initiative, Connecting Europe Facility (CEF II).
   “The parliament has given a strong signal in favor of an increased transport budget for the coming years,” said Isabelle Ryckbost (pictured), secretary general of the European Seaports Organization (ESPO), in a statement. “We embrace this decision and hope it will be confirmed in the further negotiations.”
   ESPO, however, expressed concern that the European Council has “weakened” its definition of “cross-border links” when it comes to port infrastructure projects. The association said ports should be considered “international” and be placed on “an equal priority” with the continent’s other cross-border projects.
   “Even if they are situated on the territory of one country, ports have a fundamental role to play in enhancing the cross-border connectivity within Europe and between Europe and the world. This cross-border impact should be better recognized in the future,” Ryckbost said.
   Meanwhile, Europe’s port authorities are urging EU policymakers to seek “swift adoption” of CEF II so that they can plan infrastructure projects.  The European Parliament plenary vote for this agreement is scheduled for the April 15-18 session in Strasbourg, France.