"At the beginning of my mandate, I will present a strategy for European ports". He announced it last night Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the Greek candidate for the post of European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, in the during its hearing at the Parliament of the European Union. "In an international situation that is unpredictable - said - these gateways to trade and prosperity must keep us connected in the world, but also economically independent and secure, ensuring at the same time, the transition to a climate-friendly industry."

Regarding the sustainability of the transport, Tzitzikostas specified that competitiveness of the sector must be based on this aspect: "transport - he explained - are the only sector whose emissions continue to increase compared to 1990. To achieve neutrality climate change by 2050, we need to implement legislation already Adopted. In particular, the "Fit for 55" package which You agreed during the last legislature. You can count on - he assured - to support Member States and companies in this crucial task of implementation".

Specifying which transport sector should be more supported in the transition, Tzitzikostas highlighted that "today Road transport is the main driver of pollution. We must encourage," he said, "greater use of zero-emission cars and more Clean. One element is to accelerate the reduction of emissions of corporate fleets, helping our cities fight air pollution. But also by creating a second-hand market for consumers and making zero-emission cars more accessible".

"We must also increase our efforts - he continued the European Commissioner-designate - to move freight transport towards more sustainable modes such as rail and inland waterways. Now, reach zero emissions will be more difficult for air transport and for the Shipping. We know. Here, we need to support the production and accessibility of sustainable fuels and electrification, where possible. To support the decarbonization of the sector, in 2025 I will present a plan of investments for sustainable transport. And, given that the Climate change does not stop at our borders, I will work with the IMO to pursue an equally ambitious global agenda in coordination with the Member States'.

As for transport infrastructure, Tzitzikostas announced that "a primary objective will be the completion of the trans-European transport network of 243,000 kilometres, the TEN-T, within the agreed deadlines. The railway - has underlined - is crucial for the TEN-T and is a of the greenest modes of transport Available. Completing the rail network and connecting cities with high-speed trains is, for me, a priority Absolute. This will reduce travel times. To Hamburg to Copenhagen, four hours and 20 minutes to two hours and a half. So next year, if confirmed as commissioner, I will present a plan to connect the capitals and the major EU cities with high-speed trains. And I want also improve rail connectivity in general in so that no region is left behind. Citizens and companies do not hesitate to switch to rail, including trains at night, when connections are convenient, comfortable and Reliable. In addition, the railway can transport more better functioning across borders, more in synergy with road transport. Transport doesn't just connect us inside of the Union, but also beyond. The extension of the TEN-T network help integrate the future EU Member States: Ukraine, Moldova, the Western Balkans, in the Single Market, contributing to to protect them and to protect us from future shocks."