Transport policy is a central element of shaping Europe and its legislation. European transport policy creates the prerequisites for a single market in which the free movement of persons, services and goods is possible. But it also lays down the rules for competition among the various modes of transport in order to ensure a uniform market with fair and equal opportunities.
It is important to understand the strengthening of the efficiency and competitiveness of the mobility economy as a basis for growth and employment in the EU and as a means to consolidate Europe's position as a location for business. What is needed is both an efficient and innovative transport system and the economically and ecologically efficient and safe organization of transport processes.
Innovative technology projects such as satellite navigation, satellite-based tolling, high-speed links and the promotion and development of alternative fuels and propulsion methods make a major contribution in this regard. These projects help both to optimize transportation and to ensure a clean environment and are therefore of great significance for transport policy in Europe.
Another major objective of EU transport policy is to further improve safety on Europe's roads and to further reduce the number of traffic accidents. The aim is to improve the safety of both routes and vehicles. Uniform standards must be introduced in all safety-related areas and there must be effective monitoring to ensure that there is no chance of individual countries opting out at the expense of safety.
Transport policy must be regarded as sustainable economic policy and must therefore be oriented to the Lisbon Strategy in such a way that it promotes economic growth and employment without neglecting environmental concerns.
Transport, building and urban development play a key role in improving economic conditions in the European Union and making it an attractive location for business. For this reason, Germany intends to focus on the following during its Presidency:
Promoting innovation and technology for greater competitive advantage, safety, security and environmental protection
Organizing, managing and ensuring the safety of traffic flows by:
Tapping the potential of territorial diversity and of European towns and cities by:
Regulatory impact assessment of new EU projects, also with a view to reducing bureaucracy
Planned conferences and informal ministerial meetings:
