Ahead of the EU elections this June, the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) has launched its ambitious manifesto titled “On Track For Europe”. This strategic initiative, presented at a high-level event in the European Parliament by MEP Dominique Riquet, sets out a compelling vision for the future of the European rail sector and its vital role in the continent’s sustainable and smart mobility objectives.
The manifesto delineates an ambitious plan to enhance rail passenger and freight services within an extensive rail infrastructure network, with the overarching goal of facilitating Europe’s green and digital transitions. One key feature of the manifesto is the aspiration to establish high-speed connections between all EU capitals and major cities, ensuring quality regional services, promoting sustainable tourism options, and advancing fully digital freight operations to support net-zero logistics.
Of particular note is the emphasis on the environmental and economic advantages of rail transport, including its significant emission savings, energy efficiency, and its role as a catalyst for economic activity. The manifesto underscores the pivotal role of railways in driving policy initiatives aimed at promoting Europe’s sustainability, energy independence, and overall prosperity.
Integral to the manifesto are four fundamental pillars that are set to guide future policy actions. These pillars encompass fair competition between modes, advocating for adequate financing of railways, the deployment of rail’s key digital enablers, and the adoption of a greener approach to market and competition policies. Each pillar represents a strategic imperative for the European rail sector and underlines the importance of addressing core challenges to ensure the sector’s growth and sustainability.
The launch event of the manifesto brought together current policymakers and external stakeholders, fostering constructive dialogue and contributions from diverse sectors that play integral roles in Europe’s rail services. Notable endorsements were received from influential figures such as Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Mobility Georges Gilkinet. In line with this, a positive reaction to the manifesto was also expressed by Filip Alexandru Negreanu Arboreanu, Head of Cabinet of European Transport Commissioner Adina Vălean, reflecting valuable support and encouragement from key stakeholders.
The CER manifesto presents a comprehensive blueprint for the future of European railways, providing tangible policy suggestions and tangible steps for each of its four pillars. It fortifies the sector’s commitment to cater to the evolving needs of European citizens, businesses, and economies, setting the stage for a vibrant and sustainable future for rail transport across Europe.
The manifesto’s vision aims to inspire strategic policy developments and transformative investments, harnessing the full potential of the European rail sector and positively shaping the continent’s mobility landscape for years to come. The launch of the CER manifesto 2024-2029 marks a significant milestone, signifying the collective commitment to fostering a sustainable, efficient, and interconnected rail network that will play a pivotal role in Europe’s future.
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