BELGIAN PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL KICKS OFF
Belgium assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU on 1 January. In the field of transport, as outlined in the Presidency’s work programme, the Presidency will focus on decarbonising the EU transport sector and promoting sustainable and active modes of transport, while ensuring a level playing field with third countries. Efforts will also be directed towards reinforcing intra-European connectivity, establishing a robust European transport network, and addressing the mobility impacts of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine by improving connectivity with Ukraine and Moldova.
The Belgian Presidency will place particular attention to advancing crucial EU initiatives, including the Greening Freight Transport Package. This involves promoting modal shift, including active and non-motorized mobility, international rail transport, intermodal connectivity, and reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. While significant efforts will be made to implement the green and digital transition in the transport sector, the Belgian Presidency will bring forward initiatives to improve working conditions for transport workers and to combat inadequate protection.
In the area of environment, the Presidency will focus on finalising interinstitutional negotiations on the proposal for a Union certification framework for carbon removals and the review of CO2 emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles. At the same time, it will facilitate the debate on the forthcoming European Commission communications on an EU climate target for 2040 and on climate-related risks.