Reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Ancona Charter, Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of enhancing transport connectivity in the Adriatic-Ionian Region. He highlighted the role of the Ancona Declaration as a catalyst for regional cooperation, particularly through efficient transport networks that foster economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.
The Commissioner praised progress made over two decades, noting improvements in maritime links, green corridors, and port infrastructure modernization, aided by the EU Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region. He pointed to the macro-regional approach as instrumental in avoiding project overlaps and maximizing synergies among national initiatives. Despite advancements, Tzitzikostas acknowledged existing challenges, particularly the lack of a comprehensive transport network that hampers movement of people, goods, and services.
His proposal calls for continued investment with a clear prioritization of projects addressing current gaps. Importantly, he urged for coordinated efforts by governments, international bodies, and the private sector to pool resources and expertise. The recent revised TEN-T Regulation, featuring legal frameworks, infrastructure standards, implementation deadlines, and establishment of European Transport Corridors and Maritime Space, provides a structured foundation for these ambitions.
Policy-wise, the speech favors increased EU coordination and integration in transport infrastructure over national sovereignty in planning, emphasizing infrastructure standardization and enhanced environmental sustainability. Stakeholders impacted include regional governments tasked with aligning national projects, EU regulatory bodies managing TEN-T standards, private sector investors benefitting from improved networks, and consumers gaining from reduced travel times and increased trade opportunities. While the emphasis on investment and cooperation promises economic benefits, stakeholders may face increased administrative complexity and funding requirements. The approach balances economic competitiveness with environmental considerations, potentially reshaping regional transport policies with concrete implementation targets.
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