On 15 July 2026, the Council of the European Union published a draft set of conclusions outlining a strategic approach to global connectivity, with sustainability, a level playing field, and a rules-based framework at its core. The document, which includes comments from the Netherlands, sets out the EU's intention to coordinate investments and projects through a Team Europe approach, prioritising transport, renewable energy, and digital sectors. The conclusions affect EU institutions, Member States, and partner countries by establishing a common framework for external connectivity initiatives.
The Council recalls its 2018 "Connecting Europe and Asia" strategy and affirms connectivity as a key pillar of EU regional strategies. The new approach links connectivity to the European Green Deal, the Digital Agenda, and post-COVID-19 recovery, aiming to diversify value chains and build a secure, open digital ecosystem. All international connectivity initiatives must apply high standards, with the G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment as a minimum, and support the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement.
The Council welcomes existing Connectivity Partnerships with Japan (September 2019), India (May 2021), and the EU-China Connectivity Platform (2015), and commits to future cooperation with ASEAN and the United States. The document invites the European Commission and the High Representative to implement a Team Europe approach, which involves coordinating EU institutions, Member States, and financial institutions to deliver joint projects.
Concrete steps include mapping existing projects since 2018, including new actions in the 2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework, launching a Business Advisory Group, and using the brand name "EU BRIDGES" for visibility. The Council will revert on implementation at a later stage.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The conclusions reflect a geostrategic shift: the EU aims to offer a sustainable, rules-based alternative to other connectivity models, particularly those from China. This creates a trade-off between promoting high environmental and social standards and the risk of slower project delivery or higher costs compared to less stringent competitors. The emphasis on a level playing field may also require additional regulatory oversight and coordination among Member States.
Impact on stakeholders - EU institutions: The Commission and High Representative gain a mandate to coordinate connectivity projects under a Team Europe approach, but face increased administrative burden in mapping and branding initiatives. - Member States: They are expected to align national connectivity projects with EU priorities, potentially limiting bilateral flexibility but gaining collective bargaining power and visibility. - Partner countries: They benefit from EU investment in green and digital infrastructure but must comply with high standards, which may raise project costs. - EU businesses: The Business Advisory Group offers a channel for input, but companies may face stricter requirements compared to competitors from non-EU countries.
Institutional follow-up The Council will review implementation at a future meeting. The Commission is expected to report on progress, including the mapping of existing projects and the launch of the Business Advisory Group. The conclusions also invite the Commission to explore new partnerships with ASEAN and the US, which would require further Council approval.