Connecting Europe Days - Programme

SIDE EVENT DETAILS

The Future of Rail Freight – see how it works in the 21st century!
02 April 2024, 11:00-13:15, Train World

This event is organised by the European DAC Deliver Programme, enabled by the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking.

Rail freight features trace from the early days of rail transport, like no automatic coupling of wagons, affecting rail freight performance. The European rail sector is working, with the Union support through EU-Rail, on solutions to strengthen the performance and to cope with the demand for green transport. The ‘Greening Freight Transport’ communication states that “the deployment of digital automatic couplers (DAC) will be a game-changer”, pushing rail freight into the 21st century, increasing capacity, meeting emission targets, and boosting employment in Europe.

Participants will hear from high-level European transport stakeholders and see the opportunity offered by rail automation via a live DAC demonstration.

Welcoming:

• Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director a.i., Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking

Keynote speakers:

• Georges Gilkinet, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Mobility
• Magda Kopczynska, Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport, European Commission

Panel discussion

Moderator:

• Kristian Schmidt, Director for Land Transport, DG MOVE, European Commission

Panellists:

• Mark Topal, CTO, OEBB
• Sigrid Nikutta, CEO, DB Cargo
• David Zindo, President, International Union of Wagon Keepers (UIP)
• Paolo Pagliero, Vice President of Transit Engineering, Wabtec Corporation
• Peter Füglistaler, Director of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (BAV)

DAC demonstration

Welcome:

• Volker Wissing, German Minister of Digital Affairs and Transport

Discover the innovation of inland waterway vessels
02 April 2024, 15:00-20:00, Brussels Port, Quai de Heembeek

This event is hosted by the Port of Brussels, and organised by the European Barge Union (EBU), the European Federation of Inland Ports (EFIP), Inland Navigation Europe (INE), the Inland Waterway Transport Platform (IWT), and the European Commission.

The objective of the event is to promote greening in inland waterway transport, showcasing the latest innovative inland vessels. The event will be organised in the Port of Brussels, in cooperation with the Belgian presidency of the Council of the EU. A short, guided visit is planned to observe 4-5 innovative inland waterway vessels, lined up in the port.

Moderators:

• Karin De Schepper, Director, Inland Navigation Europe (INE)
• Theresia Hacksteiner, Director, European Barge Union (EBU)
• Turi Fiorito, Director, European Federation of Inland Ports (EFIP)

Keynote speakers:

• Alain Maron, Minister of the Government of the Brussels-Capital Region, responsible for Climate Change, Environment, Energy
• Lydia Peeters, Minister for Mobility and Public Works of the Flemish Region
• Philippe Henry, Minister for Climate, Energy, Mobility and Infrastructure of the Walloon Region
• Magda Kopczynska, Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport, European Commission

Boosting Rail Freight Transport in Europe: what worked – and what still needs to be done
02 April 2024, 14:00-20:00, Palais d’Egmont

Organised by the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU, this event will bring together ministers and key players in the sector to pave the way for modal shift and green freight in the European railway network. The aim of the event is to take stock of ongoing initiatives and provide strategic and political guidelines for the future. The main themes will be integrating the players in the logistics chain and meeting their needs, supporting market segments that are conducive to modal shift, the costs of interoperability, and rail capacity.

Welcome speech:

• Georges Gilkinet, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Mobility

Moderator:

• Mathieu Grosch, TEN-T European Coordinator

Speakers:

• Alberto Mazzola, Executive Director, CER
• Dirk Stahl, President, ERFA
• Guus De Mol, Vice-president, RNE
• Johan Geemels, Commercial Director, Novandi
• Josef Doppelbauer, Executive Director, ERA
• Kristian Schmidt, Director of Land Transport at DG Move, European Commission
• Luca Farina, Planning Manager, Captrain Italia
• Mark Remie, Managing Director, Fresh Rail
• Matthias Ruete, European Coordinator for ERTMS at DG Move, European Commission
• Monika Heiming, Managing Director, EIM
• Paul Hodgson, Senior Business Manager, CFL
• Petros Papaghiannakis, General Manager, LFP Perthus
• Ralf-Charley Schultze, President, UIRR
• Sigrid Nikutta, President, RFF
• Tilly Metz, Member of the European Parliament 

Panellists:

• Kaspars Briskens Minister for Transport, Latvia
• Dr. Volker Wissing, Federal minister for digital affairs and transport, Germany
• Jindřich Kušnír, Director of the rail department, Ministry of Transport, Czech Republic
• Ioannis Xifaras, Secretary General, Ministry of infrastructure and Transports, Greece
• Constantin Gabriel Bunduc, State Secretary with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Romania

Click here for the full programme

Networking Cocktail: Impulse to Clean Power for Transport
02 April 2024, 17:00-23:00, Bozar, Ballroom "Rotonde Bertouille"

Organised by the Flemish Government (as part of the Belgian Presidency)

The Flemish Government, as part of the Belgian EU Presidency, organises this event to give a strong impetus for clean power in transport and to activate the network at the start of the Connecting Europe Days. 

Welcome speech:

• Lydia Peeters, Minister of Mobility and Public Works, Flemish Government

Moderator:

• Hanne Decoutere, Anchor Woman/Journalist, VRT (Flemish public broadcast)

Panellists:

• Els de Wit, Strategic Advisor Smart and Sustainable Mobility, Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management
• Lucie Mattera, Secretary General, ChargeUp Europe
• Anders Berger, Director Public Affairs, Volvo Group
• Marc Billiet, Senior Adviser EU Goods Transport, International Road Union (IRU)
• Brendan McDonagh, Senior advisor, European Investment Bank Advisory

Conclusions:

• Eddy Liégeois, Acting Director, Investment, Innovative & Sustainable Transport Directorate, DG MOVE, European Commission

SESSION DETAILS

Connecting Europe by Air
03 April 2024, 08:30-13:30, Skyhall Brussels Airport

The Connecting Europe by Air side event is co-organised with Brussels Airport Company as part of the Connecting Europe Days 2024, and it will take place on 3 April between 08:30 – 13:30 CET at Brussels Airport’s Skyhall. The event will gather policy makers and aviation and industry stakeholders to discuss the role of aviation in ensuring the connectivity and sustainability of the European transport system. A special focus will be on airports, highlighting their important role in Europe’s transport network. The event will include high-level panel discussions and an exhibition. 

Click here for more information.

Debate 1: “Preparing the EU for the next transport crisis”: Taking stock of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, two years into the implementation of the contingency plan for transport
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Gold Hall

In May 2022, the European Commission adopted the Contingency Plan for Transport, a set of tools and principles for the EU and its Member States to enhance the sector preparedness in responding to crisis and extreme events. Almost two years later, the Connecting Europe Days provide an opportunity to take stock of its implementation. The session will also discuss what is still to be done to ensure that the EU is fully equipped to handle the next crisis. Transport stakeholders that were recently confronted with disasters causing severe transport disruptions will shed light on their response and the lessons that can be drawn. The session will consider how to respond to emerging threats, such as cyber-attacks and drone incidents. 

Moderator:

• Ina Miškulin, Policy Officer, Coordination & Planning, DG MOVE, European Commission 

Panellists:

• Dmytro Barinov, Deputy Head of the Ukrainian Ports Authority (USPA)
• Serhii Tereshko, Deputy Head of Mission of Ukraine to the European Union
• Benedetta Berti-Alberti, Head of Policy Planning in the Office of the NATO Secretary, NATO
• Marcin Domański, Deputy Director of the Communication and Transport Department, Górnośląsko-Zagłębiowska Metropolis (Poland)
• Reto Rennhard, Head of Swiss Railway Traffic Management, SBB AG

Debate 2: Building a regional transport network in Central Asia: workshop on the TEN-T policy
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Hall 300

The TEN-T policy principles are essential for enhancing sustainable connectivity between Europe and Central Asia. For this reason – and as one of the actions taken under the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy – the EU’s Study on Sustainable Transport Connections between Europe and Central Asia, implemented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), looked at connecting the extended TEN-T network (which covers the Caucasus region), in the most sustainable way, with Central Asia. By offering an opportunity for the Central Asian countries to learn from the EU’s experience in developing the TEN-T, this workshop would offer useful advice and guidance in terms of establishing appropriate coordination mechanisms to support cross-border connectivity and the development of a regional sustainable transport network that includes all the five Central Asian countries. 

Moderator:

• Harvey Rouse, Head of International Relations Unit, DG MOVE, European Commission

Keynote speaker:

• Jan Steinkohl, Policy Officer, Transport Networks Unit, DG MOVE, European Commission

Speakers:

• Zhainar Assylbekova, Chief Expert, Department of Transport Policy, Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan
• Kairat Tursunkulov, Counsellor of the Mission of the Kyrgyz Republic to the EU
• Nurullo Ruzi, Head of International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan
• Shatlyk Garabegov, Chief of the Foreign Economic Relations and Logistics Department of the Turkmendenizderyayollary (Turkmen Maritime and River Transport) Agency of Turkmenistan
• Ulugbek Khudaiberdiyev, Chief Specialist of the Department for Road Transportation, Licenses and Permits, Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan

Debate 3: Decarbonisation of transport infrastructure construction
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Silver Hall

The building of infrastructure is in its essence a very energy and greenhouse-gas intensive process, having its own negative impact on the environment and climate. Aiming to address this, the European Commission asked a group of academic and industry experts to identify available measures to decarbonise the construction of transport infrastructure, assess their CO2 reduction potential and make recommendations to stimulate their implementation. This breakout session will give the opportunity to present the report from those experts and discuss how to follow-up their recommendations and, in particular, what can be achieved through EU regulatory and financial instruments. 

Moderator:

• Eddy Liégeois, Acting Director, Investment, Innovative & Sustainable Transport Directorate, DG MOVE, European Commission

Speakers:

• Pat Cox, Co-chair of the working group
• Konrad Bergmeister, Co-chair of the working group

Debate 4: Urban nodes: connecting the TEN-T network and urban mobility
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Copper Hall

More than 400 urban nodes play a crucial role in the TEN-T network to facilitate efficient and sustainable transport, enhance economic development, and to promote seamless movement and connectivity across Europe. This session is aimed at exchanging experiences with preparing for the implementation of the requirements set out in the proposed TEN-T Regulation. It will focus on discussing strategies and experiences with urban nodes. Panellists will elaborate on the governance of urban nodes and data collection practices, how to stimulate cooperation and coordination within and between urban nodes and how to integrate them into the wider work of the TEN-T community. 

Moderator:

• Ivo Cré, Director for Policy and Projects, POLIS

Speakers:

• Elke Van Den Brandt, Minister of Mobility and Public Works of Brussels
• Catherine Trautmann, TEN-T European Coordinator
• Silke Brocks, Deputy Head of Unit Transport Networks, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Neri Di Volo, Transport specialist, EIB JASPERS
• Peter Staelens, Head of Mobility, Eurocities

Debate 5: Boosting rail freight traffic
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Hall 400

On 11 July 2023, the Commission adopted a proposal for a Regulation on the use of railway infrastructure capacity in the single European railway area. This proposal revises the capacity planning and allocation cycle and improves the mechanisms for coordination between the various actors in the system. This session will address the upcoming changes that this new legal framework will bring, with particular focus on the key challenges stakeholders will need to tackle and their contribution to the successful implementation of these new rules. 

Moderator:

• Kristian Schmidt, Director Land, DG MOVE, European Commission

Speakers:

• Elisabeth Hochhold, Head of Legal and Sales, RailNetEurope
• Michel Geubelle, Manager of Corridor Department, Infrabel
• Anna Westerberg, Analyst, Swedish Transport Agency
• Andrea Condotta, Director of Public Affairs, Gruber Logistics
• Edgar Schenk, Managing Director, Forum Train Europe
• Sigrid Nikutta, Member of the Management Board, Deutsche Bahn AG

Debate 6: Good Navigation Status and sustainable management of inland waterways
03 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, The Arc

Through an exchange of solutions for navigable and climate resilient waterways, we seek to demonstrate that sustainable maintenance, including sustainable dredging, can co-exist with environmental objectives. The outcome of this session will be used as input for the climate resilience plenary session.

Moderator:

• Karin De Schepper, Director, Inland Navigation Europe

Speakers:

• Lucia Luijten, Secretary General, CCNR
• Krista Maes, COO, De Vlaamse Waterweg
• Andreas Bäck, Project Manager, FAIRway Danube II, viadonau
• Elena Višnar Malinovská, Head of Unit, DG CLIMA, European Commission
• Claudia Olazabal, Head of Unit, DG ENV, European Commission

Marketplace
03 April 2024, 09:00-12:30, Grand Hall 1

As in previous years, the Connecting Europe Days 2024 will host a Marketplace for innovative companies, project promoters and initiatives from the public and private sector across Europe to pitch their projects to a targeted audience.

The pitch should present a link to the TEN-T (trans-European transport network) policy in the context of a sustainable, smart and resilient European transport system, in particular in the areas of digital applications, low-emission mobility, road safety and security, urban mobility and smart cities, artificial intelligence and others.

Click here for more information.

Moderator:

• Anna Gumbau

Debate 7: Revolutionising infrastructure: Paving the way for sustainable, resilient and future-proof freight transport
03 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Gold Hall

To achieve EU targets for green freight transport, infrastructure must adapt to accelerate the deployment of innovative solutions. The session will address the physical and digital requirements for zero-emission, connected, and resilient freight transport, for both road-only and multimodal freight transport, and how infrastructure managers and operators can collaborate to implement innovative solutions. 

Moderator: 

• Szymon Oscislowski, Deputy Head of Unit Maritime Transport and Logistics, DG MOVE, European Commission

Speakers:

• Anna Borsuk, Logistics Procurement Director, Europe & MET, UNILEVER
• Giuseppe Dall'Asta, Managing Director, Interporto Bologna SpA
• Philippe de Carné, Team Leader Building the Future, GEODIS
• Janeta Toma, General Manager, European Inland Waterway Transport (IWT) Platform
• Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director,a.i., Europe's Rail Joint Undertaking
• Jan Van Rensbergen, Programme Manager, Flemish Road and Traffic Agency

Debate 8: Energising heavy duty road transport: Assessing hydrogen uptake in the EU
03 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Silver Hall

This session's primary objective is to assess the current progress and challenges faced by the European Union in adopting hydrogen as a fuel for heavy-duty road transport. It will bring together experts and stakeholders from various sectors, including hydrogen producers, fleet operators, refueling network managers, vehicle manufacturers, government representatives and investors. The discussion will encompass an analysis of the EU's current adoption of hydrogen in heavy-duty transport, the growth of hydrogen refuelling networks in Europe, the role of vehicle manufacturers and fleet operators in advancing hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles and the implications for Europe's global competitiveness.

Moderator:

• Monika Jones 

Speakers:

• Matteo Azzimonti, Policy Officer, Hydrogen Europe
• Antoine Tournand, Vice-President H2, TotalEnergies Marketing & Services
• Marc Horsten, Head of External Relations, DAF Trucks
• Roxana Ilie, Project Manager, UNTRR
• Johannes Daum, Head of Hydrogen, Alternative Fuels and Fuel Cells, NOW GmbH
• Nicolas Brahy, General Counsel, Hy24

Debate 9: Passenger rights and TEN-T
03 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Hall 400

The implementation of the trans-European transport networks (TEN-T) has involved a remarkable improvement in the level of service to passengers of collective modes of transport, particularly in terms of quality and journey times. The session will identify to which extend the implementation of the EU passenger rights legislation (e.g., protection in the event of disruptions such as long delays and cancellations of services, information to passengers, assistance to passengers with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility (PRM) etc) has benefited from the TEN-T implementation, why it remains so relevant and also the challenges still to be addressed.  It would also investigate how the recent Commission legislative proposals on passenger rights (adopted on 29 November 2023) will contribute to the better protection of passengers. 

Moderator:

• Marinda Hall

Speakers:

• Morgan Foulkes, Deputy Director-General, Airport Council International (ACI-Europe)
• Suzanne Hoadley, Senior Advisor, Passenger Transport, International Road Transport Union (IRU)
• Cécile Guilhaumaud, SNCF Voyages Developpement
• Ursula Pachl, Deputy Director-General, The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC)
• Delphine Grandsart, Senior Researcher, European Passenger Federation (EPF)
• Gunta Anca, Vice-president, European Disability Forum (EDF)
• Norman Schadler, Agency for Passenger Rights (APF), Austria 

Debate 10: Increased role of urban nodes in multi modal intelligent traffic management
03 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Copper Hall

The increased role of urban nodes in multi modal traffic and mobility management signifies a paradigm shift in urban mobility. Supported by TEN-T and ITS legislation, urban nodes are transforming into dynamic hubs of digital transportation solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and user experience. In this session, we dive deeper into common issues on implementing ITS in urban nodes, addressing needs and challenges of public administration in urban nodes and the role of public – private cooperation. Furthermore, good practices are presented on how to engage and help public administrations play their important role to reach the objective of efficient, safe, sustainable, smart and resilient mobility. While challenges persist, the potential for reduced congestion, improved air quality, and enhanced social and territorial cohesion makes the pursuit of this transformation a vital step towards creating smarter, more liveable cities. 

Moderator:

• Lennart Salemink, Head of Unit, Dutch Ministry of Transport

Speakers:

• Axel Volkery, Deputy Head of Unit Sustainable and Intelligent Transport, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Karen Vancluysen, Secretary General, Polis
• Gabriela Lněničková, Member of the City Assembly, Committees for Transport, Urban Planning and Foreign Affairs, City of Prague
• Chris de Vries, Director, Dutch National Road Data Portal (NDW)
• Gerhard Menzel, Head of Unit, Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology Austria

Debate 12: Digitalising logistics – The EU Regulation on electronic freight transport information (eFTI) and beyond
03 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, The Arc

In this session we will explain how the eFTI Regulation on electronic freight transport information will work in practice, based on its recently adopted implementation specifications. Furthermore, we will engage stakeholders in a two-pronged discussion. Firstly, how to ensure timely and smooth implementation of the regulation. And secondly, in a further forward-looking perspective, how to leverage the different elements of the eFTI exchange environment to boost digital transformation beyond the scope of the eFTI Regulation, while building and integrating into the common European mobility data space.

Moderator:

• Annika Kroon, Head of Unit Maritime Transport and Logistics, DG MOVE, European Commission

Keynote speaker:

• Ondřej Kovařík, Member of the European Parliament, Renew Group, European Parliament

Speakers:

• Birgit Fassbender, Deputy Head of Unit, Freight Transport and Logistics, Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, Germany
• Hanane Becha, Vice-President, The United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT)
• Matjaž Auflič, Chief Operating Officer, Trinet Informatika, Slovenia
• Willemien Akerboom, Product Manager Digital, Hutchison Ports, ECT Rotterdam, The Netherlands
• Toni Penttinen, Chief Operating Officer, Ahola Digital, Ahola Group, Finland

Opening Ceremony
03 April 2024, 14:00-14:45, Gold Hall

Master of Ceremony:

• Marinda Hall

Welcome:

• Magda Kopczynska, Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Keynote speakers:

• Adina-Ioana Vălean, European Commissioner for Transport, European Commission
• Georges Gilkinet, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Mobility, Belgian Ministry of Mobility
• Karima Delli, Chair TRAN Committee and Member of the European Parliament, European Parliament

Plenary 1: Launching the implementation of the revised TEN-T Regulation
03 April 2024, 14:45-16:15, Gold Hall

The revision of the TEN-T Regulation is a key part of the European Green Deal and the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy. This policy seeks to build a reliable, seamless and high-quality transport network, which ensures connectivity within the EU without bottlenecks or missing links. 

This session is aimed at exchanging on key measures following the adoption of the revised TEN-T Regulation such as the geostrategic importance of the transport network, governance, new standards, extension of the network, cross-border cooperation and reinforced efforts to develop intermodal infrastructure. 

Moderator:

• Marinda Hall

Speakers:

• Karima Delli, Chair TRAN Committee and Member of the European Parliament, European Parliament
• Óscar Puente Santiago, Minister of Transport, Spain
• Martin Kupka, Minister of Transport, Czech Republic
• Judith Engel, Board Member for Network Expansion and Infrastructure Provision, ÖBB Infrastruktur AG
• Guy Janssens, VP Strategic & Public Affairs, Port of Antwerp-Bruges
• Minna Arve, Mayor of Turku
• Mathieu Grosch, European TEN-T Coordinator, European Commission

Plenary 2: Enhancing the climate resilience and decarbonisation potential of European transport infrastructure
03 April 2024, 16:45-18:30, Gold Hall

The impacts of climate change are already having grave repercussions for assets and infrastructure and these impacts are set to intensify in the future. It is therefore essential to clearly identify and invest in infrastructure that is prepared for a climate-neutral and climate-resilient future. At the same time, the building of infrastructure is in its essence a very energy and greenhouse-gas intensive process, having its own negative impact on the environment and climate. Aiming to address this, the revised TEN-T regulation introduced climate proofing requirements for new infrastructure. Moreover, in September 2023 the European Commission launched a study to identify major climate resilience risks within the TEN-T network. It also asked a group of academic and industry experts to identify available measures to decarbonise the construction of transport infrastructure, assess their CO2 reduction potential and make recommendations to stimulate their implementation. 

This plenary debate will discuss possible climate adaptation measures as well as investment programmes for enhancing the climate resilience of European infrastructure. It will also address strategies to reduce the impact of building infrastructure on the environment and climate.

Moderator:

• Herald Ruijters, Deputy Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Panellists:

• Pat Cox, European TEN-T Coordinator, European Commission
• Wouter De Ruyter, Adviser to Minister for Mobility & Public Works, Region of Flanders, Belgium
• Ligita Austrupe, Acting Secretary of State, Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia
• James Falzon, Associate Director for Sustainable Infrastructure, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
• Wim Thiery, Associate Professor, Free University of Brussels
• Dr. Stephanie Hänsel – Chair, UNECE Group of Experts on Climate Change Impact Assessment and Adaptation for Inland Transport

SESSION DETAILS 

Debate 13: Professional drivers and cargo safety and security on the roads of the TEN-T network
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Studio 311+312

Driver and cargo security as well as road safety are a matter of concern for professional drivers and transport operators - and by extension for all road stakeholders. The session will bring together industry experts, policymakers, transport associations, trade unions and other relevant stakeholders to share experiences, exchange ideas, and identify practical solutions. In particular, the session will address the provision of safe and secure parking areas within the TEN-T Network. 

Moderator:

• Elzbieta Lukaniuk, Member of Cabinet Valean, European Commission

Speakers:

• Catherine De Bolle, Executive Director, EUROPOL
• Dirk Penasse, General Manager, ESPORG
• Frank Van Nueten, Managing Director, TVM Belgium
• Elmer de Bruin, International Affairs Manager, Transport en Logistiek Nederland (TLN) and President of IRU’s EU Goods Transport Liaison Committee
• Stefan Thyroke, Chair of Freight Transport, ETF Road Section, ETF
• Steve Phillips, Secretary General, CEDR

Debate 14: Boosting passenger rail transport
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Hall 400

After the full market opening in 2021, many new long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services have been launched, and competition as well as passenger demand have increased. With the action plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail, including support to pilot services, the Commission is supporting the introduction of new services. This session takes stock of the market situation and looks ahead to the future of cross-border services, including high speed.

Moderator:

• Kristian Schmidt, Director Land, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Panellists:

• Monique Goyens, Director General, BEUC
• Nicolas Bargelès, Directeur des Opérations Ferroviaires // COO, Midnight Trains
• Michael Peterson, Member of the Board of Deutsche Bahn and CEO DB Fernverkehr, Deutsche Bahn
• Roberto Maiorana, Director-General, Trafikverket
• Jon Worth, Independent consultant and initiator of the #CrossBorderRail project

Debate 15: RH2INE initiative as a frontrunner in zero emission inland waterway transport – best practices and key challenges
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Studio 313+315

Although considered as one of the most energy efficient and sustainable modes of transportation, inland waterways have a role to play in the sector’s decarbonization. The transition to zero-emission technologies, such as electric or hydrogen propulsion, holds great potential in making inland waterway transport an even more environmentally friendly option. As one of the examples of the necessary synergies between transport, energy and digitalization, RH2INE is contributing to accelerating the transition towards zero-emission transport within the next 5 to 10 years. 

Moderator:

• Jeannette Baljeu, Regional Minister, Province of Zuid-Holland

Keynote speaker:

• Fotini Ioannidou, Acting Director, Directorate for Waterborne Transport, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Panellists:

• Torben Hensler, Vice-President, Global Supply Chain Services, BASF
• Stephan Heuvelman, Captain, Heuvelman Transport
• Milica Nikolic, Project Manager, Viadonau
• Andreas Neff, Policy Advisor on transport, Rhineland Pfalz
• Alexis Licha, Energy Transition & Business Development Director, Engie
• Marieke Kuijpers, Sector Manager - Mobility, Rabobank

Debate 16: Ports as energy hubs and intermodal gateways for trade
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Silver Hall

Maritime transport is an essential tool for the EU economy as it contributes to around 75% of EU external trade volumes and 31% of EU internal trade volumes. As such, being the entry and exit points for the trans-European transport network, maritime ports play an important role as multimodal transport nodes. But how can their potential be harnessed? This breakout session explores the opportunities and challenges of European ports as gateways, namely in terms of trade, intermodality and sustainable energy hubs.

Moderator:

• Rhiannon Ducas-Chevalier, Senior advisor, ADS Insight

Speakers:

• Prof. Dr. Ulla Pirita Tapaninen, Tenured Associate Professor of Maritime Transport, Tallinn University of Technology
• Marjolein van Noort, Responsible for the Brussels office of the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners (KVNR), Senior Policy Advisor Economy and Finance
• Prof. Dr. Michele Acciaro, Associate Professor, Copenhagen Business School
• Annaleena Mäkilä, Managing Director (emerita), Finnish Port Association
• Prof. Dr. Maria Boile, Professor of Port and Terminal Policy and Management, University of Piraeus
• Ana Arévalo Gandal, Head of Shorepower Department, Port of Barcelona

Debate 17: Uniting Europe - Migration to European standard railway gauge
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, The Arc

Geopolitical events, notably Russia’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine, underscore the EU's need for better connections with neighbouring nations and to ensure interoperability within the internal market. Incompatible rail track gauges lead to transhipment at EU borders and cause delays and additional costs. This session explores the rail track gauge disparities between Ukraine and the EU, and within the EU, that obstruct rail interoperability. 

The European Green Deal's ambition to promote rail transport faces obstacles due to these disparities. To mitigate these challenges, the revised TEN-T Regulation suggests adopting a uniform European track gauge for new infrastructure, in order to promote rail interoperability and meet transportation goals. 

Moderator:

• Herald Ruijters, Deputy Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Panellists:

• Loreta Maskaliovienė, Deputy Minister for Transport and Communications, Lithuania
• Daniela Morari, Ambassador, Head of the Mission of Republic of Moldova to the EU
• Oleg Yakovenko, Director, Ukrainian railways (UZ)
• Josep Boira, Spanish Commissioner for the Mediterranean corridor 
• Simone Gorini, CEO, Iryo Railway undertaking
• Gert Dobben, Head of Division Resources Support, EU Military Staff, EEAS

Debate 18: Data driven mobility and transport policy and the role of Artificial Intelligence
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Copper Hall

This session will focus on the challenges and opportunities in ensuring the availability and accessibility of high-quality data to support public policy and information services for citizens and businesses, particularly in the realm of transport, including electric vehicle recharging infrastructure and real-time price information. It will also cover the importance of good data for evaluating Member States' compliance with transport regulations and standards, leading to more informed policy decisions and efficient allocation of EU and Member State funds for infrastructure deployment. The benefits for the EU of a broader deployment of AI in transport and mobility applications will also be discussed. Lastly, the session will highlight ongoing regulatory actions and non-legislative initiatives, such as the common European mobility data space (EMDS), as mechanisms to facilitate data-sharing and contribute to an open data ecosystem and ultimately the accelerated uptake of AI. 

Moderator:

• Joost Vantomme, Chief Executive Officer, ERTICO-ITS Europe

Panellists:

• Damaris Gruber, Team Leader Data Access, AustriaTech
• Axel Volkery, Deputy Head of Unit B.4, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Antonio Soria Ramirez, Head of Unit C.6, Economics of Climate Change, Energy and Transport, Joint Research Centre (Sevilla), European Commission
• Josianne Cutajar, Member of the European Parliament, European Parliament
• Roderick Van Den Berg, CEO, Eco-movement
• Lucie Kirstein, Senior Manager Strategic Projects, Acatech
• Christian Kleine, Manager Data Partnerships WEU, HERE Technologies
• Margriet Van Schijndel, Lab Director Responsible Mobility, Eindhoven University of Technology TU/e / AI Systems Institute

Debate 19: 10 years of CEF – main achievements and the way forward
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Gold Hall

This session is organised by CINEA, with the following two objectives: First, to present how the programme has already contributed to the objectives of the TEN-T, by illustrating the logic behind CEF support and by demonstrating a small number of representative success stories, presented by the relevant stakeholders. Second, to highlight the role of CEF as a catalyser in cross-border project financing, in particular in promoting cross-border cooperation and funding as well as in addressing future challenges. 

1^st part:

Moderator:

• Olivier Silla, Head of Department Sustainable investments and networks, CINEA

Speakers:

• Paloma Aba Garrote, Director, CINEA
• Arthur Marceau, Project manager financing, DB PSU/Stuttgart
• Gabriela Popowicz, Director, PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe
• Eva Pérez García, Innovation Promotion Director, Valencia Port Foundation
• Karol Kažimír, Director of the Operation Section, Gabčíkovo-Nagymaros Waterworks System and Asset Management
• Vytis Žalimas, CEO, AB LTG Infra

2^nd part:

Moderator:

• Catherine Trautmann, European TEN-T Coordinator for the North Sea–Baltic core network corridor

Speakers:

• Philippe Henry, Vice-President and Minister for Climate, Energy, Mobility and Infrastructure, Belgium
• Åsa Virro, RTS Programme Manager, LFV RTS
• Esa Suoyrjö, Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency.
• Olivier Silla, Head of Department Sustainable investments and networks, CINEA

TSI support to Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs)
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Hall 300

The Technical Support Instrument (TSI) is an EU programme for the period 2021-2027 managed by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM), providing tailor-made technical expertise to EU Member States for the design and implementation of structural reforms. The TSI is a demand-driven support programme that does not require co-financing from Member States and builds on the experience of its predecessor, the Structural Reform Support Programme (2017-2020). In recent years, there has been growing demand from Member States for technical support on building capacity and carrying out reforms in the field of mobility and transport. In this session, the panellists will share and discuss experiences and insights on Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs). It will also present TSI supported projects in Poland, Malta, Cyprus and Greece, illustrating how TSI can aid Member States and regions in advancing SUMPs reforms.

Moderator:

• Kaspar Richter, Head of Unit, DG REFORM, European Commission

Welcoming word:

• Mario Nava, Director-General, DG REFORM, European Commission

Speakers:

• Torsten Klimke, Head of Unit Innovation & Research, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Piotr Markowicz, Expert of the Competence Centre for SUMP (Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans) from the Department of Transport Strategy of the Ministry of Infrastructure of Poland
• Kurt Vella, Transport Malta
• Marion Lagadic, Project Manager Innovation, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, International Transport Forum (OECD/ITF), Greece
• Evie Anayiotou, Head of Sustainable Mobility Section, Ministry of Transport, Cyprus
• Liana Suleymanova, Associate Project Director for EU Institutions and International Partnerships, EY Economic and Policy Advisory Services, Belgium

Improving the performance of cross-border rail freight traffic
04 April 2024, 09:00-10:30, Studio 314+316

This session will focus on some of the current initiatives to improve the performance of cross-border rail freight traffic such as:

• Quality Circle Operations (QCO) (RFC Atlantic & RFC Rhine-Alpine)
• Brenner Corridor and Femern Belt Platforms (RFC ScanMed)
• Evolution of the dozen: improving train performance both at Schengen borders and non-Schengen borders (RFC Orient/East-Med)
• Capacity Intelligence project (RFC North Sea-Med)
• Real Time Data sharing between railway actors (TIS and R-CDM) (RailNetEurope)
• Enhanced Data Interoperability for Combined Transport stakeholders (EDICT) project (UIRR)

Moderator:

• Guus de Mol, Head International Logistic Affairs, ProRail

Speakers:

• Christiane Warnecke, Deputy Director, RFC Atlantic
• Ralf-Charley Schultze, Director General & President, UIRR
• Furio Bombardi, Managing Director, RFC ScanMed
• Harald Reisinger, Chief Information Officer / Chief Financial Officer, RailNetEurope
• Lőrinc Czakó, Chair of the Management Board, RFC Orient/East-Med
• Philipp Hansel, Corridor Manager, RFC Rhine-Alpine
• Yann Le-Floch, Managing Director, RFC North Sea-Med

Restricted meeting (on invitation) – RLCF Alliance Event: Innovate & Connect: Advancing renewable and low-carbon fuel solutions for maritime and aviation
04 April 2024, 09:00-12:30, Hall 100

At the RLCF Alliance Event during Connecting Europe Days 2024 we'll spotlight groundbreaking projects aimed at greening aviation and maritime fuels. In the Project Showcase segment, we intend to dive into a diverse array of initiatives from our members, highlighting innovation across different sectors, regions, and scales. Expect insightful presentations that shed light on cutting-edge advancements. This will be followed by a dynamic Speed-Dating Session, meticulously designed to foster meaningful connections and collaborations. Through structured project-based pairings and networking, participants will engage to forge valuable relationships that drive the future of sustainable transport.

Master of Ceremony:

• Moumen Hamdouch, Head of Unit Sustainable & Intelligent Transport, DG MOVE, European Commission

Marketplace
04 April 2024, 09:00-12:30, Grand Hall 1

As in previous years, the Connecting Europe Days 2024 will host a Marketplace for innovative companies, project promoters and initiatives from the public and private sector across Europe to pitch their projects to a targeted audience. 

The pitch should present a link to the TEN-T (trans-European transport network) policy in the context of a sustainable, smart and resilient European transport system, in particular in the areas of digital applications, low-emission mobility, road safety and security, urban mobility and smart cities, artificial intelligence and others.

Click here for more information.

Moderator:

• Anna Gumbau

Debate 20: Innovations that will change the face of rail: How new technology opens a new era to the rail sector
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Silver Hall

The aim of this breakout session is to discuss the introduction of new technologies in the rail sector as well as their expected impact (including the potential spillover to other transport modes). The focus will be on more imminent technologies such as Automated Train Operation (ATO), through the upcoming implementation of Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC), to the replacement of radio systems by the new radio system (FRMCS), which can be complemented with the use of satellite technology for positioning and communications. Moreover, views will be exchanged on complementary new transport modes and technologies such as Hyperloop. Particular attention will be given to the contribution of the new technologies to addressing the current challenges faced by the rail sector.

Moderator:

• Estelle Bacconnier, Policy Officer, Rail Safety & Interoperability, DG MOVE, European Commission

Panellists:

• Lea Paties, Senior Programme Manager, Europe’s Rail
• Maria-José Garcia Prieto, Project Officer ERTMS, European Railway Agency (ERA)
• Nadege Declercq, Signalling Director, Alstom’s Mannheim site
• Laura Pantone, Train driver, Representative of European Autonomous Train Drivers (ALE)
• Clémence Lukowski, Chief Financial Officer, Zeleros (Hyperloop company)

Debate 21: Strategies for sustainable funding of European public transport
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Gold Hall

Investing in European public transport is essential to ensure its long-term viability while addressing environmental and social goals such as improving transport infrastructure to make it more resilient and to reduce its carbon emissions, and at the same time ensure a modal shift towards sustainable forms of transport. What are the funding/financing strategies to achieve these goals? Should we rely on a mix of funding and financing sources? Is there an optimal mix?

Moderator:

• Isabelle Vandoorne, Deputy Head of Unit, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Panellists:

• Thomas Avanzata, Spokesperson of the European Union Committee, UITP
• Françoise Guaspare, Senior Policy Advisor, Ile de France Europe
• Filip Boelaert, Secretary-General, Flemish Department of Mobility and Public Works
• Philippe Citroen, Director General, UNIFE
• Julie Reiner, Secretary General, SNCF Gares & Connexions
• Neil Valentine, Head of Division responsible for Urban Mobility, EIB projects department

Debate 22: Direct electrification across transport modes – current possibilities, limitations, and future opportunities
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Hall 400

The Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy indicates the need to cut transport emissions by 90% by 2050. One of the most efficient ways to decarbonise is direct electrification. Despite substantial progress, there are still significant bottlenecks for seamless integration of electric craft into the wider transport infrastructure. Electrification requires a systemic approach and involvement of various sectors and policies to succeed towards meeting the requirements as set by the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). This session will develop ideas on how to accelerate the electrification across all transport modes through discussing questions such as: How can the energy and transport sectors collaborate? What is the need for electricity grid reinforcements and how is the necessary upgrade of electricity grids progressing in the EU? What are the challenges and opportunities for road transport, electromobility in cities, airports and ports in deploying infrastructure?

Moderator:

• Axel Volkery, Deputy Head of Unit Sustainable and Intelligent Transport, DG MOVE, European Commission

Panellists:

• Maciej Mazur, Managing Director, Polish Alternative Fuels Associations and President, AVERE, The European Association for Electromobility
• Kristian Ruby, Secretary General, Eurelectric
• Prof. John Prousalidis, Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, National Technical University of Athens
• Koen Noyens, Head of Public Affairs, Milence
• Meiltje de Groot, CEO, Groningen airport

Debate 23: The role of gender equality in boosting the green transition in the transport sector
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, The Arc

The session’s overarching theme is “The role of gender equality in boosting the green transition in the transport sector.” The first part of the panel will present the different activities and awareness raising initiatives carried out by the European institutions. During the second part, a discussion among transport stakeholders, representing different modes of transport, as well as the employers’ and workers’ perspectives, will be held to exchange good practices and best examples to trigger change. 

Moderator:

• Lucie Žáčková, Head of Unit Central and South East Europe, ATM and Just Transition Mechanism, CINEA

Panellists:

• Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska, Member of the European Parliament, Rapporteur for the European Parliament’s own initiative report ‘Ensuring European transportation works for women’.
• Elisabeth Kotthaus, Head of Unit Social Aspects, Passenger Rights and Equal Opportunities, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Paloma Aba Garrote, Director, CINEA
• Zuzana Púčiková,  Diversity Ambassador in Transport, SME Connect
• Nathalie Balcaen, CEO, Flemish Agency for Maritime and Coastal Services
• Claudiu Staicu, General Director, Legal and Operational Programme, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure of Romania
• Sabine Trier, Deputy Secretary General, European Transport Workers’ Federation
• Maja Roginska, Lead Economist, Mobility Department, EIB
• Emily Clancy, Vice Mayor, Bologna

Debate 24: Accelerating synergies between the transport, energy and digital sectors
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Copper Hall

The interconnections between the transport, energy and digital sectors are becoming increasingly important in the modern world. These sectors, which traditionally operated in isolation, are more and more often converging to create new opportunities and address pressing global challenges, such as climate change and the need for more efficient transport solutions as indicated in the European Green Deal. The convergence of the transport, energy, and digital sectors holds great potential for creating more efficient, sustainable and interconnected European Transport Corridors. 

Moderator:

• Catherine Trautmann, European TEN-T Coordinator for the North Sea – Baltic Corridor, European Commission

Speakers:

• Catharina Sikow-Magny, Director for Green Transition and Energy System Integration, Directorate General for Energy (DG ENER), European Commission
• Peter Stuckmann, Head of Unit for Electronic Communications Policy, Implementation and Enforcement, Directorate for Communication Networks, Content and Technology (DG CNECT), European Commission
• Paweł Wojciechowski, European Coordinator for the Rhine – Alpine Corridor, European Commission
• Egbert van der Wal, Director of Port Development, Port of Rotterdam
• Sanne Frías Henriksen, Head of Decarbonisation, Public and Regulatory Affairs, AP Moeller Maersk
• Francisco Laverón, Head of Energy Prospective, Iberdrola
• Katarzyna Ramut-Wąż, Expert, Regulatory Affairs and Compliance, PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A.
• Mats Mudigonda-Lundbäck, Vice President Strategic Programs,Telia

Debate 25: Renovating Road infrastructure using Green Deal instruments
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Studio 313+315

Road infrastructure throughout Europe is aged and therefore faces a major renovation challenge. It no longer has to meet the requirements of increasing traffic loads and density only. It also has to meet requirements on environmental, social and governmental aspects. In line with the European Green Deal, money needed to master this task has also to come from (private) money redirected to sustainable infrastructure projects. The European commission already has put in place different instruments e.g. Construction Products Regulation, EU Construction & Demolition Waste Management Protocol,  initiatives on digitalisation of the construction industry, a sustainable finance framework incl. CSRD, EU Taxonomy etc. setting the course towards climate neutral and circular road infrastructure renovation. This break-out sessions gives an overview of some key instruments that have been put in place to enable the transition towards climate neutral and circular road infrastructure.

Moderator:

• Steve Phillips, Secretary General, CEDR

Speakers:

• Tina Krajsek Samar, Policy Officer, DG FISMA, European Commission
• Phillippe Moseley, Policy Officer, DG GROW, European Commission
• Maya Sule, Programme Manager, Rijkswaterstaat

The AU-EU Strategic Transport Corridors: inspired by the TEN-T as a catalyst for the implementation of the Global Gateway in Africa
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Studio 311+312

The Global Gateway Africa/Europe Investment Package aims to support Africa for a strong, inclusive, green and digital recovery and transformation by inter alia accelerating the green transition and accelerating sustainable growth and decent job creation. In the context of the 6th EU-AU Summit, held in February 2022, the European Union and its Members States and Development Banks (Team Europe) proposed to support quality connectivity infrastructure for smart, fair and affordable mobility and trade within Africa and in between Africa and Europe.

The African Union and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have for many years used corridors as a basis for their development, and this endeavour has become essential for the materialisation of the continental free trade area (AfCFTA). Global Gateway will therefore aim at supporting the realisation of strategic, sustainable and secure transport corridors and support value chains, services and jobs that can benefit industries in both Africa and Europe.

The Strategic Corridors underpin the territorial organisation - rural and urban - through reliable networks and services. The investment package will develop multi-country infrastructure by supporting investment in sustainable, efficient, and safe connectivity between both continents and updating and harmonising regulatory frameworks. The ambition by 2030 is to integrate the African and European multimodal transport networks in line with the regional and continental frameworks and tailor these networks to develop the economic potential of the AfCFTA.

This session will give the opportunity to high level representatives of African continental and regional organisation and EU officials to present the transport corridors approach in Africa.

Moderator:

• Robert Lisinge, UNECA, Chief, Energy, Infrastructure and Services Section, Private Sector Development and Finance Division

Speakers:

• Sergio Oliete Josa, Head of Unit for Sustainable Transport and Urban Development, DG International Partnerships
• Kamugisha Kazaura, Director for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission
• Towela Nyirenda-Jere, Head of Economic Integration Division, AUDA-NEPAD
• Mike Salawou, Director for the Infrastructure, Cities & Urban Development Department, African Development Bank

TSI support to sustainable and smart mobility as alternatives for the car on fossil fuels
04 April 2024, 11:00-12:30, Hall 300

The Technical Support Instrument (TSI) is an EU programme managed by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM), providing tailor-made technical expertise to EU Member States for the design and implementation of structural reforms. The TSI is a demand-driven support programme that does not require co-financing from Member States and it builds on the experience of its predecessor, the Structural Reform Support Programme (2017-2020). In recent years, there has been a growing demand from Member States for technical support for building capacity and carrying out reforms in the field of mobility and transport. In this session, the panellists will share and discuss experiences and insights on sustainable and smart mobility solutions as alternatives to the car on fossil fuels, it will also present TSI supported projects in Slovakia, Belgium, Poland and the Netherlands, illustrating how TSI can aid Member States and regions in advancing their sustainable mobility projects.

Moderator:

• Milena Raykovska, Deputy Head of Unit, DG REFORM, European Commission

Welcoming word:

• Nathalie Berger, Director Support to Member States Reforms, DG REFORM, European Commission

Speakers:

• Moumen Hamdouch, Head of Unit Sustainable & Intelligent Transport, DG MOVE, European Commission
• Radovan Slavik, advisor at Public Transport Unit, Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic, Slovakia
• Chris Ceustermans, New mobility policy advisor, Brussels Mobility, Belgium
• Rob Lemmen, Manager Mobility Advisory, Deloitte Netherlands
• Ulrich Laumanns, Project Manager, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Greece
• Aleksander Wołowiec, Deputy Director for Railway Stakeholders | Railway Subprogramme Strategy & Planning, Design & Engineering Department CPK – Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, Poland

Plenary 3: Connectivity with neighbouring countries and Union’s resilience in the new geopolitical environment
04 April 2024, 14:00-15:30, Gold Hall

The functioning of the EU’s transport connectivity, in particular with neighbouring countries, has been repeatedly tested. Our transport network struggles to handle trade flows, hampered by a lack of connectivity at the borders. The Union and its neighbouring partners must improve the transport corridors with a view to their future accession. Likewise, the Union must increase its efforts to improve military mobility to bolster resilience and to enable transit of deliveries to Ukraine. 

Moderator:

• Marinda Hall 

Speakers:

• Adina-Ioana Vălean, Commissioner for Transport, European Commission
• Gert-Jan Koopman, Director-General, DG NEAR, European Commission
• Serhii Derkach,  Deputy Minister for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine
• Andrei Spînu, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development, Moldova
• Filip Radulović, Minister of Transport and Maritime Affairs, Republic of Montenegro
• Loreta Maskaliovienė, Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, Lithuania

Plenary 4: Future of infrastructure funding and financing
04 April 2024, 16:00-17:30, Gold Hall

In 2024, discussions regarding the upcoming EU multi-annual financial framework (MFF) will commence. The conference's closing plenary debate will emphasize the importance of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) III. The next MFF starting in 2028 marks a pivotal moment coinciding with the completion of the TEN-T core network. A joint position paper from the European TEN-T Coordinators is in preparation to identify investment needs and highlight CEF's advantages over other EU funding options. The final version of this report is expected to be ready by spring 2024, serving as a valuable input for the discussion during this session.

Moderator:

• Magda Kopczynska, Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission

Impulse statement:

• Carole Delga, President of the Région Occitanie Pyrénées – Méditerranée and President of Régions de France

Speakers:

• Jan Szyszko, Secretary of State, Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy, Poland
• Dominique Riquet, co-rapporteur TEN-T and previously co-rapporteur CEF and Member of the European Parliament, European Parliament
• David Mueller, Head of Cabinet Commissioner Hahn, European Commission
• Robert de Groot, Vice-President, European Investment Bank
• Anja van Niersen, Chief Executive Officer, Milence

Conclusions and Closing Ceremony
04 April 2024, 17:30-18:30, Gold Hall

Master of Ceremony:

• Marinda Hall

Speakers:

• Magda Kopczynska, Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission
• Herald Ruijters, Deputy Director-General, Directorate General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), European Commission