Anne-Laure LE MERRE
Joint Statement on the Connecting Europe Facility
UITP joins Europe’s rail associations in welcoming the European Commission’s proposal for the continuation of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) as part of the EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 and calls for strong EU funding to enhance competitiveness and security.
A strategic imperative
Rail transport infrastructure and operations form the backbone of Europe’s civil and military connectivity. They enable the Single Market to function efficiently by linking cities and regions, while also ensuring the safe and rapid movement of military personnel and equipment across the EU.
However, bottlenecks persist across the TEN-T core, extended core and comprehensive networks. Addressing these constraints is essential to deliver better passenger and freight services and to strengthen Europe’s security and resilience.
Our position
UITP and the signatory associations welcome the Commission’s strategic vision and stress the importance of sufficient and stable funding for:
- the deployment of interoperable systems such as European Rail Traffic Management System;
- the development of an efficient and sustainable European rail network;
- the creation of resilient multimodal hubs connecting rail with other sustainable modes of transport.
At the same time, it is crucial that defence-related investments also bring benefits to citizens in their everyday mobility.
Signatories
This joint statement is endorsed by:
UITP, AERRL, ALLRAIL, CER, CT4EU, EIM, ERFA, UIP, UIRR, UNIFE.
