MEPs call for the creation of a Global EU Connectivity Strategy
31208
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-31208,single-format-standard,et_divi_builder,qode-social-login-1.1.2,qode-restaurant-1.1.1,stockholm-core-1.0.5,tribe-no-js,page-template-stockholm,select-theme-ver-9.6.1,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,vertical_menu_enabled,menu-animation-underline,side_area_uncovered,,qode_menu_,et-pb-theme-stockholm,et-db,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-7.5,vc_responsive,cookies-not-set

MEPs call for the creation of a Global EU Connectivity Strategy

MEPs urge that connectivity be prioritised in the EU’s work in order to achieve a more proactive European position in global politics.

In the report on connectivity and EU-Asia relations, Foreign Affairs Committee MEPs stress the fundamental role that connectivity plays in the geopolitical relations of the EU and member states. They highlight connectivity is fundamental for the EU and is deeply ingrained in its approach to domestic and international challenges. The report was adopted on Thursday by 54 votes in favour, 2 against and 12 abstentions.

MEPs encourage the Commission and the European External Action Service EEAS to create a Global EU Connectivity Strategy as an extension of the current EU-Asia connectivity strategy. This would strengthen the EU’s role as an indispensable geopolitical and geo-economic actor, as well as forging stronger partnerships with democracies around the globe that share the EU’s fundamental values.

EU’s role in setting standards

Calling for the promotion of fiscally, economically, socially and environmentally sustainable connectivity, MEPs point out that global challenges will be aggravated if opposing international factions develop or global relations break down entirely.

A Global EU Connectivity Strategy must implement projects that conform with EU values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, non-discrimination and solidarity, and must reinforce the EU’s international role as a norm-setter, say MEPs.

For its implementation, adequate human and financial resources must be allocated, with investments that respect the public good, transparency, and market efficiency, while avoiding debt entrapment, stress MEPs.