Honourable Members,

Today marks an awaited moment: the presentation of the Commissions proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028 to 2034. I am pleased to have this opportunity to discuss the future of transport and tourism in Europe.

Our goal is to modernise the EU budget. Rapid global changes require smarter solutions. Thus, a smarter MFF means a more flexible MFF. Currently, over 90% of EU spending is predetermined, leaving little room for adapting to unforeseen circumstances. This flexibility is crucial, particularly for transport infrastructure, which requires long-term planning and funding visibility.

Moreover, a smarter MFF should be a simpler MFF. Beneficiaries often highlight the complexity of current rules and the challenges in accessing EU funding. We propose fewer programmes in the next MFF to enhance simplicity and synergies.

Dear colleagues,

The sovereignty of Europe relies on our competitiveness and security. The next MFF must address both. Our Connecting Europe Facility is pivotal in achieving this, with a proposed Connecting Europe Facility 3 boasting a transport budget of 51.5 billion euro, double the current budget. This reflects the importance of transport for our competitiveness and security.

This budget also includes 17.65 billion euro for military mobility, a necessary increase for ensuring Europe’s security.

Between 2028 and 2034, completing the cross-border sections of the TEN-T network is essential, with CEF as our key tool. EU support is critical for large infrastructure projects, particularly cross-border initiatives, which would not proceed without it.

CEF enables funding for high-value projects that benefit citizens and supply chains, including island Member States. Military mobility is now a strategic priority, necessitating a robust infrastructure network to support rapid movement.

We are collaborating closely with the military community to prepare projects for 2028 and to enhance cross-border connections with Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. This cooperation fosters regional integration and resilience while ensuring synergy with the new Global Europe instrument.

Dear colleagues,

The significance of transport across our economy is also reflected in its coverage by other EU programmes, including the National and Regional Partnerships, European Competitiveness Fund, and Horizon Europe. Strong coordination will maximize our investments. The National and Regional Partnerships will complement CEF funding for TEN-T connections, with Member States investing in their national networks.

National plans may include investments in clean and digital transport and military mobility, prioritizing transport under these funds. We emphasize support for Member States with a GNI below 90%, focusing on infrastructure improvements in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe.

The new European Competitiveness Fund will support the investment cycle from research to deployment, promoting made-in-Europe innovations for sustainable transport solutions. The transport sector can access 26 billion euro for decarbonization, alongside additional funding from the Innovation Fund.

Beyond infrastructure, we aim to support essential equipment like ferries and transport vehicles. The Competitiveness Fund will also facilitate private investment and EU guarantees for transport projects, linking closely with Horizon Europe for sustainable transport solutions.

Dear colleagues,

Transport is vital, but the MFF also prioritizes tourism, crucial for many regional economies. The National and Regional Partnerships will extend current Cohesion Policy funding for tourism, emphasizing sustainability and supporting SMEs in their transition to sustainable practices. The new AgoraEU programme will promote lesser-known cultural routes and heritage sites across Europe.

Honourable Members,

I hope this overview provides clarity on our toolkit for transport and tourism. I look forward to your insights as we collaborate on these important issues.