Brussels, 17/06/2009 (Agence Europe) - As foreseen, the European Commission adopted, on Wednesday 17 June, a communication on the future of transport policy, which aims to stimulate the debate with a view to concrete proposals for the next White Paper on transport due in 2010 (see EUROPE 9922). “The text is based on a fundamental principle, namely the protection of citizens' rights and the rights of European passengers”, the transport commissioner told the press. In his view, it is essential for the new transport policy to provide an integrated transport system, ensure competitiveness of European companies, and place users and workers at the heart of its concerns.
Speaking to the press, Antonio Tajani also highlighted the need for better integration of European transport routes with those of the neighbouring states of the EU. While, to date, transport policies focused more on the creation of a single market, it is now necessary to “develop links with other players”, Mr Tajani stressed. “It is essential to operate this about turn. We must cooperate with our neighbours”, the commissioner stressed. He plans, moreover, to present a communication to the College of Commissioners on 25 June on the subject of Africa, that will deal with all relations between the EU and Africa relating to transport, especially in respect of security and migration. According to the communication published on Tuesday, migration will be one of the main challenges that the future transport system will have to face. Given the strong migratory flows, the population of the EU could increase by 56 million by 2060. (A.By./transl.jl)