Commissioner Tzitzikostas' statement at the EP Plenary Session on the importance of trans-European transport infrastructure

European Commission -Speech [Check Against Delivery] Commissioner Tzitzikostas' statement at the EP Plenary Session on the importance of trans-European transport infrastructure Brussels, 2 April 2025 Honourable Members, It's an immense pleasure to be here today, to talk about what I consider to be the centrepiece of EU transport policy, the trans-European transport network. The TEN-T, as it is widely known. And I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that the TEN-T has been central to creating the EU that we know and cherish today. It connects us as people. It connects our businesses and economies. It makes our single market possible. It ensures that infrastructure funding is targeted and effective. And yes, the economic opportunities that the TEN-T creates, and the structure it provides to step up European defence, are particularly valuable. For all these reasons, completing the TEN-T, closing gaps and removing bottlenecks, must be a priority, with our first important deadline being already in 2030 for the most strategic connections. Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi's reports both made very clear that a truly integrated trans-European transport is key to a seamless, functioning single market, as well as to the transition to a competitive, sustainable and digital economy. Consider just one ongoing project: The Lyon-Turin base tunnel. Completion will cut travel time for...