The European Committee of the Regions' COTER Commission has adopted a new report on a sustainable and connected European transport system, led by Marco Marsilio, ECR Group President  and President of the Abruzzo Region, addressing the local and regional perspective on the EU's plans for sustainable transport investment and on the future European high-speed rail network.  

"The development of high-speed rail must go hand in hand with the strengthening of conventional regional networks," Marsilio said. "Large European infrastructures produce real benefits only when they are integrated into regional mobility systems and allow citizens and businesses from all territories to access the same opportunities. This is also about guaranteeing the right to stay: ensuring that young people can build their future in the regions where they were born, without being forced to leave because of a lack of connections, services or economic opportunities." 

The opinion warns that connectivity cannot be limited to major cities and core corridors. Regional rail, local connections and strategic regional airports must remain part of a truly integrated European transport network. President Marsilio also  calls for a pragmatic and technology-neutral approach to the green transition. "We fully support the transition towards more sustainable transport, but it must be driven by innovation, not by predefined choices," he said. "We must prevent the green transition from becoming a source of territorial inequality."  

Pointing to the significant differences between European regions in infrastructure, industrial capacity and investment potential, the opinion argues that ambitious climate goals must be matched by realistic implementation timelines, adequate financing and flexible rules that reflect local realities. It also calls for technological neutrality in alternative fuels and a stronger role for regional and local authorities in shaping Europe's transport future.  

"Sustainability requires innovation, technological neutrality and solutions adapted to different regional realities," Marsilio concluded.  

Following its adoption in the COTER Commission, the opinion will be submitted for final approval by the CoR Plenary Assembly in October.