Description
On 3 April, with the adoption of the European declaration on cycling, the EU took another important step towards reducing transport emissions. Indeed, in the margins of the informal European Transport Council and the Connecting Europe Days, Adina Vălean, Commissioner for Transport, signed a declaration together with Karima Delli, Chair of the European Parliament's Transport Committee, and Georges Gilkinet, Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium. The declaration is also in line with the Belgian Council Presidency's goal of decarbonising the EU transport sector.
The declaration, which recognises the bicycle as a sustainable, accessible and affordable means of transport with strong added value for the EU economy, includes clear commitments, such as safe and coherent cycling networks in cities, better connections to public transport, safe parking spaces and access to charging points for e-bikes. These commitments are made at EU, national, regional and local level. They are necessary to improve the quality and quantity of cycling infrastructure in all Member States and make cycling more attractive to the public.
Based on a proposal submitted by the Commission in October 2023 and in response to requests from the European Parliament and Member States, the declaration constitutes a common political commitment and a strategic compass for current and future cycling policies and initiatives.
Source: Press Office of the European Commission Representation in Italy
Photo: EC