European transport priorities – North Sea–Baltic Corridor and security; Miltoviča becomes sections president

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has identified two main transport policy priorities for the coming years, which will also significantly impact Latvia.

Firstly, the development of the North Sea–Baltic transport corridor. This is a European-level road and rail network that connects the Baltic States with the rest of Europe. For Latvia, this project means faster and safer freight and passenger transport opportunities, the development of the Rail Baltica project, new logistics opportunities for businesses, and the strengthening of economic competitiveness.

Secondly, strengthening civil and military cooperation in the transport sector. This entails planning and building transport infrastructure so that it serves both civilian and defense needs simultaneously. For Latvia, this means greater security, more efficient use of investments, and a more resilient transport system during crises.

Armands Gūtmanis, Board Member of the Sustainability Cluster Latvia, emphasizes: “Significant progress has already been made in the European Union to decarbonize passenger cars – through the construction of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the implementation of support mechanisms for citizens. The next major task is to accelerate the transition of freight transport and other sectors to sustainable solutions. We will also continue to be actively involved in this process, cooperating with experts from the European Economic and Social Committee to promote the development of a modern and sustainable transport system.”

Yesterday, at the meeting of the Civil Society Organizations Group of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), attended by representatives from all 27 EU Member countries, Baiba Miltoviča was unanimously elected as President of the Transport section for 2025–2028. She currently leads the Latvian National Association for Consumer Protection and is actively involved in shaping European transport and energy policy.

“In EESC opinion the modernization of transport systems across Europe is becoming an increasingly important priority, and the Latvian government and businesses need to work even more intensively, including, attracting EU fund investments. The EESC will continue to support the plans of governments and entrepreneurs,” Miltoviča notes.