Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works, Alexis Vafeades, in his intervention at the Informal EU Transport Council held in Budapest on September 20, emphasized that improving the connectivity of the EU with neighboring countries (Ukraine, Moldova, and Western Balkan countries) is of great European importance.

The discussion during the Council, held under the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council, focused on ways to enhance competitiveness in the transport sector within the EU, an official press release said.

In his speech, Vafeades stated that the development of transport across Europe will further boost trade and bring prosperity to European citizens. This effort, he said, should be based on several factors such as supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in their efforts to expand cross-border trade, further developing and expanding infrastructure, adopting a digital ecosystem, and prioritising the environment and the green growth goals for transport.

Vafeades further stressed that it must be secured that no discrimination occurs, and no restrictive measures are imposed in the transport sector as part of this effort. He also spoke about the development of trans-European networks and their expansion to neighbouring EU countries, highlighting that these will bring security and stability across Europe.

In the ensuing discussion, most member states expressed their support for the Connecting Europe Facility funding instrument. However, they emphasised that the funding provided so far for the development of trans-European networks is not sufficient and that significant investments are required for further growth in the sector. Cyprus agrees with this position, having repeatedly requested that the specific characteristics and needs of each member state be taken into account.

While EU member states share common goals and aspirations, the geographical position of each member state determines its specific needs, the press release concluded.