17.09.2024
On 17 September, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the portfolios for the Commissioners-designate for the upcoming mandate.
Mr Apostolos Tzitzikostas, former President of the European Committee of the Regions, has been assigned the role of Commissioner for "Sustainable Transport and Tourism."
In the mission letter provided by President von der Leyen, several key policy priorities are outlined for the transport portfolio.
Notably, Mr. Tzitzikostas has been tasked with overseeing the completion of the TEN-T core network by 2030, as stipulated in the TEN-T Regulation. Additionally, he is expected to propose a Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, which will prioritise, among other things, the rapid deployment of charging infrastructure. His role will also focus on enhancing the social dimension of mobility, creating quality jobs within the sector, addressing labour and skills shortages, and reinforcing transport security, including cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection, and relations with third countries.
Furthermore, Mr. Tzitzikostas will be responsible for developing a comprehensive EU Port Strategy, centered on security and competitiveness, building on the work already done by the European Ports Alliance.
Mr. Tzitzikostas will operate under the supervision of Executive Vice-President-designate for Cohesion and Reforms, Raffaele Fitto.
President von der Leyen’s mission letter highlights several customs-related priorities, including the Customs Reform Package, the establishment of an EU Customs Authority, addressing non-compliant products on e-commerce platforms, and advancing a fully digital customs environment. It also touches upon rules of origin and the need for greater transparency and improved communication with stakeholders.
Before taking office, the College of Commissioners must be formally approved by the European Parliament. Parliamentary Committees will conduct confirmation hearings for the Commissioners-designate as from the third week of October. The new Commission is expected to begin its mandate on 1st of November 2024.
Source: European Commission