International relations

The inherently cross-border dimension of transport is reflected in the international reach of this EU policy. A wide range of activities have been put in place, covering all transport modes and activities which differ depending on the country or region concerned.

The main focus of the EU international transport cooperation is on extending internal market rules, notably through work in international organisations, and on promoting European safety, security and environmental standards.

In this context, opening up third country markets in transport services, products and investment to free and undistorted competition and environmentally sustainable solutions, continues to be a priority. A key objective is also to extend the EU´s transport and infrastructure policy to the neighbours of the Union. The Commission aims to adopt flexible strategies to ensure the EU's role as a standard setter in the transport sector.

In terms of type of interaction in the field of international transport relations, the following main areas of work with third countries can be identified:

• 1. Enlargement countries
• 2. European Neighbourhood Policy countries
• 3. Bilateral relations with other third countries

White Paper "Roadmap to a Single European Transport Area – Towards a competitive and resource efficient transport system" (2011)