Four major cross-border projects in Europe are urging European institutions to maintain a strong financing mechanism such as the Connecting Europe Facility III (CEF III). Redirecting funds on a more fragmented national basis would hinder the completion of these projects, which include Rail Baltica, Turin-Lyon, the Brenner Base Tunnel and the Canal Seine–Nord Europe.
Three of these projects are railways, underlining the importance of European financing in cross-border rail initiatives. “Europe’s cross-border infrastructure projects are not just investments in concrete and steel — they are the physical manifestation of European unity, strategic mobility, and sustainable growth”, said Rail Baltica CEO Marko Kivila.
The future of CEF III remains quite uncertain, as the European Commission is considering terminating it to put more focus on national single plans. On the other hand, the European Parliament recently published a report which highlights the importance of maintaining the fund scheme in place.
Five demands from the four projects
The four cross-border projects came forward with five demands for the European Parliament and Commission. These include the preservation of CEF III with increased financial ambition; the prioritisation of European Transport Corridors; ensuring long-term financing for cross-border projects; easing the administrative burden and encouraging cooperation between the public sector and private entities.
They are calling for “a unified and well-funded European transport network by ensuring that the next Multiannual Financial Framework provides the financial foundation necessary for the completion of these vital projects.” Similar claims have already been made by other industry players such as UNIFE, which groups rail manufacturers and suppliers in Europe. What the future holds for CEF III is still undecided, but various segments of the industry have already spoken their minds.