Including the Mediterranean Corridor in the Trans-European Transport Network's list of priority projects
1.9.2009
WRITTEN QUESTION E-4297/09
by Magdalena Alvarez (S-D)
to the Commission
The ‘Mediterranean Corridor’ is a communication axis of major importance, both for connecting southern Europe to the rest of the continent and providing the European Union with access to North Africa. In this respect, it is my wish to speak in particular about rail freight transport.
The development of this axis is a priority for the Spanish Government and has been presented as such on numerous occasions to the Commissioner for Transport in office. To cite an example, at the Marrakech Euro-Mediterranean Transport Conference in December 2005, as a response to the Spanish government’s insistency, Commissioner Barrot stated that he considered the development of the corridor as fundamental for linking North Africa and Central Europe, affirming he would ensure it received the maximum attention. This priority was also put to Commissioner Tajani in a recent meeting.
In order to harness the dynamic potential of the corridor in Spain, it should begin in Algeciras and then pass through the provinces of Malaga, Granada, Almeria, Murcia, Alicante, Valencia, Castellon, Tarragona, Barcelona and Girona. These are areas of considerable economic activity with high concentrations of road traffic.
The ‘Mediterranean Corridor’ was included in an agreement of 11 June 2009 reached on the Trans-European Freight Network’s new regulations (starting from Almeria). However, given the overriding importance of the axis’ rapid development, in line with the interest displayed by the Spanish Government, I am convinced of the project’s merit and the need for it to be included in the Trans-European Transport Network’s (TEN‑T) priority projects. As such, it could benefit from the incentive that the European Union grants to these projects and would see its urgent finalisation both facilitated and brought forward.
Is the Commission considering the Mediterranean Corridor for rail transport in its entirety (from the port of Algeciras)?
Is the Commission planning to include it in the Trans-European Network’s list of priority projects?
OJ C 10 E, 14/01/2011