EU backs transport renewal funding to 2027

MEPs have backed a funding programme which will include money for the digitalisation of transport and the development of 5G systems.

The 1816 European Union policymakers have voted to support the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme for 2021-2027 in a meeting between European Parliament industry and transport committees.

The provisional agreement sets the framework for continuing the CEF programme to fund transport, digital and energy projects over the seven-year period. The budgetary provisions for the programme will be discussed as part of negotiations on the next multiannual financial framework.

CEF will fund projects for modernisation of transport infrastructure, cross-border projects and those aiming to make infrastructure compatible for civilian and military needs. The programme is also seeking to improve the interoperability of energy networks and ensure that projects are funded in line with EU and national climate and energy plans.

Marian-Jean Marinescu, European People's Party, says: “I hope that the next Parliament will support the increase of the transport section budget which will allow to complete the core network corridors.”

The provisional agreement will now need to be approved by the full house of the Parliament and the European Council.