Brussels, 11/12/2006 (Agence Europe) - In its conclusions on short distance maritime transport, adopted on 11 December, the Transport Council highlighted the need to rationalise and simplify the regulatory framework and administrative procedures governing short distance maritime transport, in an effort to improve efficiency. It also underlined the necessity of continuing harmonisation and approximation in the application of Community customs rules in the different Member States in the goal of creating equitable conditions for all. It considers that it necessary to prioritise the promotion of this mode of transport via the concept of the motorways of the sea, national maritime transport promotion offices and their European network. The Council points out that ports are nodal points ensuring the crossing of borders between land and sea and in this context, their services for short distance maritime transport should be strengthened and improved. (dt)