Apostolos Tzitzikostas Officially Appointed EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transportation and Tourism

The new EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism during his speech at the European Parliament. Photo source: Apostolos Tzitzikostas press office

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Greece’s newly appointed European Union Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, has been officially confirmed for a five-year term following a successful three-hour hearing with the European Parliament’s TRAN Committee.

Reports from the international press highlighted Tzitzikostas’s thorough preparation, composure, and solid understanding of key EU transport policies. His appointment was approved, with opposition only from the far-right “Sovereign Nations” bloc, while members of the European Left abstained.

In his opening remarks to the committee, Tzitzikostas emphasized the critical role transportation and tourism play in the daily lives of EU citizens, connectivity, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Drawing on his prior experience as president of the European Committee of the Regions, he noted his familiarity with both European legislative processes and local governance challenges.

“Transportation and tourism are essential for competitiveness and regional development,” he stated, expressing his gratitude for being entrusted with this role.

Strategy for Sustainable Tourism

Photo source: Apostolos Tzitzikostas press office

Addressing the significance of tourism, Tzitzikostas pointed out that Europe is the world’s leading travel destination and that tourism is a major driver of economic growth, employment, and social cohesion.

“Our aim is to enhance the sustainability of tourism to ensure its continued development and appeal,” he said, noting that Europe is home to over three million active small and medium-sized tourism enterprises, many of which are family-run and operate in sectors such as hospitality, travel services and transport.

He outlined plans to engage with local authorities and governments to craft a comprehensive Strategy for Sustainable Tourism, focusing on supporting businesses, environmental protection, and community welfare.

Regarding EU funding for tourism enterprises, which currently stands at 15 billion euros, Tzitzikostas pledged to advocate for budget increases and streamline access by simplifying procedures.

He concluded his address with a reference to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s call for a new plan for sustainable competitiveness, underscoring that “transportation and tourism are two essential pillars”.

Transportation and European networks

Photo source: Apostolos Tzitzikostas press office

Tzitzikostas highlighted the scale and importance of the European transportation sector, noting that it comprises 1.4 million businesses, with 99.7 percent classified as small and medium-sized enterprises. He acknowledged their call for reduced bureaucracy and committed to streamlining regulations to foster growth. “My aim is to cut red tape,” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Europe’s competitive edge.

A focal point of his speech was the Inter-European Transportation Network, encompassing over 243,000 kilometers of high-speed rail. He stressed that enhancing rail infrastructure is essential due to its environmental benefits, positioning trains as a central element in Europe’s transport system.

Tzitzikostas announced plans to introduce a comprehensive initiative next year to connect EU capitals and major cities, aiming to bolster overall rail connectivity and ensure no region is excluded. He noted that completing the network would facilitate better integration of member states and support future expansions involving Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans.

Focusing on passenger rights and seamless travel, Tzitzikostas promised to make the EU’s market more unified. He revealed plans for a digital reservation system for train travel and announced that by 2025, a unified ticket system would be available, enabling passengers to combine different modes of transport, such as air and rail, in one transaction.

Auto Industry, Shipping, and Ports in the spotlight

Photo source: Apostolos Tzitzikostas press office

Commissioner Tzitzikostas also addressed the significant aspects of his portfolio, including the European auto industry, which supports 14 million jobs and contributes to a 100-billion-euro trade surplus. He emphasized the importance of maintaining competitiveness while advancing digitalization and green innovation within the sector.

On shipping and ports, Tzitzikostas announced his intention to introduce an Integrated Strategy for European Ports early in his term. He highlighted the strategic importance of European ports as gateways for international trade and essential for economic resilience, especially in an unpredictable global landscape.

“Ensuring Europe’s connection to global trade while boosting economic autonomy is vital,” he said. Tzitzikostas further stressed the necessity of adopting real-time data, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation to foster competitiveness across the transportation industry.

Commitment to Safety and Workers’ Rights

Photo source: Apostolos Tzitzikostas press office

Tzitzikostas also underscored his commitment to enhancing urban mobility and protecting workers’ rights, along with reinforcing safety standards.

In addressing railroad safety, he referenced the tragic Tempi train accident in Greece in February 2023, a topic brought up by multiple MEPs during the hearing. This accident had sparked significant criticism of the Greek government over safety practices.

The session saw interruptions by Greek MEPs Maria Zacharia and Kostas Papadakis, but concluded with Eliza Vozenberg, the TRAN Committee president, affirming the transparency and democratic nature of the process.