A platform for information exchange between MTITC representatives, the National Assembly Transport Committee, Bulgarian representatives to the EP and sector organizations, was set up to discuss topical issues on Mobility Package I, announced the Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications, Rossen Jeliazkov, before EC representatives during the hearing at the National Assembly on negotiations progress on the Package. In his words, the system presents a tool for the timely exchange of positions and decision-making.
Minister Jeliazkov announced he had sent an open letter to all transport ministers of the 27 member states appealing to resect of Bulgaria’s interest. “Bulgaria continues to strongly and confidently assert its active position in all possible formats where the Mobility Package is being discussed”, further added the Minister. He shared the view that the lack of impact assessment of the new proposals on the sector development poses concerns for the future of the Bulgarian international road transport.
The ambition of the Austrian Presidency is to achieve a “common approach” on the legislative proposals on Mobility Package I during the forthcoming TTE Council (Transport format) on December 3, 2018. “I share the enthusiasm for common approach, yet the glass is half empty, not full. I await the new proposals on 22 October”, added the Minister. Jeliazkov also pointed out that the issue with vehicle return, a problem for peripheral countries, receives the least support.
Later in the day, Minister Jeliazkov held a working meeting on the topic with sector representatives. He agreed the operators’ concerns were well founded bearing in mind the social and economic effects if the measures are to be adopted. This is expected to result in reducing transportation efficiency, lay-offs, increasing negative environmental impact and massive bankruptcies.
“I agree with the whole reasoning put forward with regard to the threats to the single market and the deepening of disintegration processes in the EU. I am convinced that in the talks our arguments will be considered both rationally and emotionally, yet taken seriously. The European Commission shall review all of them with professionalism and dignity and exert its influence to ensure democracy in the Union respecting the rights of smaller states”, stated Minister Jeliazkov.
