During his official visit to Lisbon, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, addressed the Parliament of Portugal and engaged in meetings with various government officials, including the Mayor of Lisbon. In his parliamentary speech, he highlighted the European Commission’s strategic priorities and initiatives within his area of responsibility.
“My primary goals for the next five years revolve around enhancing competitiveness, promoting sustainability, and ensuring safety,” he stated. “In the face of significant challenges, transportation serves as a pillar of stability and a catalyst for boosting competitiveness, reducing emissions, and strengthening Europe’s resilience.” He also mentioned that, “In February, we will present the Industry Agreement aimed at transforming Europe into an attractive manufacturing destination that provides good working conditions and prioritizes social protection. A prime example of the economic importance of the European transportation sector is the Portuguese town of Palmela, home to one of the largest exporting companies in the country, employing more than 5,000 people.”
The Commissioner underscored the commencement of dialogues within the automotive sector, focusing on the production of a new generation of zero-emission vehicles in Europe, particularly in Palmela. He indicated that these discussions would culminate in the Action Plan for the European Automotive Industry, which he plans to unveil on March 5th. “My focus is on enhancing competitiveness and productivity while attracting private investment to bolster support for initiatives at both national and EU levels. We will accomplish this by streamlining regulations, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for businesses, and advancing sustainability,” he remarked.
Mr. Tzitzikostas also highlighted the recent approval of the Competitiveness Plan by the European Commission, which sets forth key directives for the next five years and aims for more effective management of expenditures, addressing the substantial investment demands in transportation.
On the topic of the Trans-European Transport Networks, he noted that “the primary objective is to improve the connections between European transport corridors and ports, as well as the broader European maritime area. This is essential for Portugal, which serves as the starting point of the Atlantic corridor. Such improvements will enhance trade efficiency and transportation while increasing economic competitiveness. Additionally, establishing high-speed rail links between cities is a crucial priority. We are actively developing a roadmap for this, and I recognize that modernizing the railway network and improving connections with Spain are top priorities for Portugal. A three-hour train journey from Lisbon to Madrid is an attainable goal, and you can count on my full support to achieve this. Shorter travel times, more frequent services, and seamless travel will enhance Portugal’s appeal to tourists and businesses alike.”
This year, Mr. Tzitzikostas will present his proposal for the next multiannual financial framework, emphasizing his commitment to securing robust support from Portugal for a financing mechanism that continues to back cross-border transport initiatives.
“I will also introduce an investment plan for sustainable transport. However, it is clear that we will require significantly more funding to ensure truly interconnected, affordable, and reliable transport services across the continent,” he added.
Regarding tourism, the Commissioner remarked, “In my home country of Greece, as well as in Portugal, tourism is a vital economic and developmental pillar. I look forward to collaborating with the Portuguese government to establish a tourism strategy that supports our local communities and enterprises through sustainable tourism practices, honoring our traditions, nature, and cultural heritage.”
During his time in Lisbon, Mr. Tzitzikostas held a series of bilateral meetings, first with Portugal’s Minister of Economy, Pedro Reis, alongside Deputy Minister of Tourism, Pedro Machado, and President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade. He then met with the Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, followed by discussions with Paulo Rangel, the Minister of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs, concluding with a meeting with the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas. (6/2/2025)
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