2020/2115(INI) Connectivity and EU-Asia relations
Lead committee dossier:
Progress: Procedure completed
| Role | Committee | Rapporteur | Shadows |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | AFET |
BÜTIKOFER Reinhard ( Verts/ALE)
|
DELI Andor ( EPP),
OLEKAS Juozas ( S&D),
KYUCHYUK Ilhan ( Renew),
MARIANI Thierry ( ID),
DZHAMBAZKI Angel ( ECR),
VILLANUEVA RUIZ Idoia ( GUE/NGL)
|
| Committee Opinion | INTA |
KELLY Seán ( EPP)
|
|
| Committee Opinion | TRAN |
DZHAMBAZKI Angel ( ECR)
|
Andor DELI ( PPE),
Leila CHAIBI ( GUE/NGL),
Pierre KARLESKIND ( RE),
Andris AMERIKS ( S&D),
Alviina ALAMETSÄ ( Verts/ALE)
|
Lead committee dossier:
Legal Basis:
RoP 54, RoP 57
Legal Basis:
RoP 54, RoP 57Events
2021/01/21
EP - Results of vote in Parliament
Documents
2021/01/21
EP - Decision by Parliament
Details
The European Parliament adopted by 526 votes to 43, with 119 abstentions, a resolution on connectivity and EU-Asia relations.
Members noted that considerable economic potential between Europe, Asia and other continents remains untapped owing to a lack of physical and digital infrastructure. The importance of an effective EU Connectivity Strategy has been further underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, which made both the weaknesses and strengths of the European and global connectivity networks clear to see.
Principles of the Connectivity Strategy
Parliament encouraged the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to develop an EU Global Connectivity Strategy, which would be an extension of the current EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy. This strategy would strengthen the EU's role as a key geopolitical and geo-economic actor and set the conditions for Europe to cooperate with other countries bilaterally and multilaterally to promote fiscally, economically, socially and environmentally sustainable connectivity.
The Strategy should comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values.
Members invited all European countries to join the EU’s Connectivity Strategy, including countries in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), the Western Balkans and the European Neighbourhood, and to functionally integrate the different developing regions. The UK is also encouraged to join forces with the EU in promoting strategic international connectivity.
Governance of the Strategy
The Strategy should be monitored and coordinated with the pursuit of internal connectivity within the EU and between the EU and its prospective members, such as through the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) or the Three Seas Initiative, strengthening shared values, standards and interests, and providing shared ownership of the Strategy for EU institutions and the Member States.
Parliament proposed to open a regular dialogue on the implementation of the strategy within the Commissioners’ Group for a stronger Europe, which would act as a coordinating body for connectivity. In addition, Parliament, Council, Member States and national parliaments should all be involved in the strategy. The Commission should produce regular progress reports on the implementation of the strategy.
European and Member States’ development banks, investment agencies and export credit agencies should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects.
For the Strategy to be credible, it needs to be equipped with the necessary tools and means to implement it on a scale that matches its ambition. Adequate public resources should be allocated under the 2021-2027 MFF.
Strategy’s priorities
The Strategy should also be clearly focused on a definitive set of priorities such as, inter alia: green transition, transport, digital transformation; health, trade, investment and security.
Connectivity partnerships
Parliament welcomed the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on sustainable connectivity with the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa. It also welcomed the ongoing negotiations to establish a connectivity partnership with India. It expressed support for a connectivity partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Both Russia and Turkey also have interests in becoming stakeholders in EU-Asia connectivity. Members are willing to partner with them where possible. They regretted however that projects funded by China in Central Asia lack transparency.
Members considered that the EU should strengthen cooperation with the US.
Global connectivity
Parliament strongly emphasised the fact that the Strategy must pay particular attention to connectivity with the European Neighbourhood and with the neighbouring continent of Africa, given its increasingly geopolitical relevance for several global actors.
Lastly, the Commission should present a new communication approach with a clear narrative in order to create adequate visibility and sufficient accountability for EU connectivity policies and their results.
Documents
2021/01/21
EP - End of procedure in Parliament
2021/01/19
EP - Debate in Parliament
Documents
2020/12/17
EP - Committee report tabled for plenary
Details
The Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted the own-initiative report by Reinhard BÜTIKOFER (Greens/EFA) on connectivity and EU-Asia relations.
The report noted that considerable economic potential between Europe, Asia and other continents remains untapped owing to a lack of physical and digital infrastructure. The importance of an effective EU Connectivity Strategy has been further underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, which made both the weaknesses and strengths of the European and global connectivity networks clear to see.
Principles of the Connectivity Strategy
Connectivity plays in the geopolitical relations of the EU and its Member States and underlines the fact that connectivity, as a fundamental orientation of the European Union, is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges.
Members urged 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 with the goal of strengthening the EU’s role as a true and indispensable geopolitical and geo-economic actor.
The Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values.
Members invited all European countries to join the EU’s Connectivity Strategy, including countries in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), the Western Balkans and the European Neighbourhood, and to functionally integrate the different developing regions. The UK is also encouraged to join forces with the EU in promoting strategic international connectivity.
Governance of the Strategy
The Strategy must be monitored and coordinated with the pursuit of internal connectivity within the EU and between the EU and its prospective members, such as through the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) or the Three Seas Initiative, strengthening shared values, standards and interests, and providing shared ownership of the Strategy for EU institutions and the Member States.
Stressing the multidimensional nature of the Strategy, which will require effective coordination of existing strategies, policies and projects for international connectivity and interoperability, Members expect existing coordination between the EEAS and the Commission Directorates-General to be enhanced in this regard. Moreover, Parliament, the Council, the Member States and national parliaments should all be involved in the Strategy.
European and Member States’ development banks, investment agencies and export credit agencies should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects.
For the Strategy to be credible, it needs to be equipped with the necessary tools and means to implement it on a scale that matches its ambition. Adequate public resources should be allocated under the 2021-2027 MFF.
Priorities of the Strategy
The Strategy should also be clearly focused on a definitive set of priorities such as, inter alia: green transition, transport, digital transformation; health, trade, investment and security.
Connectivity partnerships
The committee strongly welcomed the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on sustainable connectivity with the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa. It hopes the EU and Japan will actively promote the connectivity partnership among relevant target groups and manage to kick-start the operationalisation of the partnership in the first half of 2021.
Both Russia and Turkey also have interests in becoming stakeholders in EU-Asia connectivity. Members are willing to partner with them where possible. They regretted however that projects funded by China in Central Asia lack transparency.
Members considered that the EU should strengthen cooperation with the US.
Global connectivity
Members strongly emphasised the fact that the Strategy must pay particular attention to connectivity with the European Neighbourhood and with the neighbouring continent of Africa, given its increasingly geopolitical relevance for several global actors.
Lastly, the Commission should present a new communication approach with a clear narrative in order to create adequate visibility and sufficient accountability for EU connectivity policies and their results.
Documents
2020/12/10
EP - Vote in committee
2020/12/02
EP - Committee opinion
Documents
2020/11/24
EP - Amendments tabled in committee
Documents
2020/11/11
EP - Committee opinion
Documents
2020/10/28
EP - Committee draft report
Documents
2020/09/17
EP - Committee referral announced in Parliament
2020/09/17
EP - Referral to associated committees announced in Parliament
2020/09/11
EP - DZHAMBAZKI Angel (ECR) appointed as rapporteur in TRAN
2020/07/02
EP - KELLY Seán (EPP) appointed as rapporteur in INTA
2020/04/02
EP - BÜTIKOFER Reinhard (Verts/ALE) appointed as rapporteur in AFET
Documents
- Results of vote in Parliament: Results of vote in Parliament
- Decision by Parliament: T9-0016/2021
- Debate in Parliament: Debate in Parliament
- Committee report tabled for plenary: A9-0269/2020
- Committee opinion: PE657.369
- Amendments tabled in committee: PE661.782
- Committee opinion: PE657.395
- Committee draft report: PE660.104
- Committee draft report: PE660.104
- Committee opinion: PE657.395
- Amendments tabled in committee: PE661.782
- Committee opinion: PE657.369
Activities
- Fabio Massimo CASTALDO
Plenary Speeches (3)
- Reinhard BÜTIKOFER
Plenary Speeches (1)
- 2021/01/19 Connectivity and EU-Asia relations (debate)
- Nicola DANTI
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Andor DELI
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Angel DZHAMBAZKI
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Seán KELLY
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Ilhan KYUCHYUK
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Thierry MARIANI
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Juozas OLEKAS
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Robert HAJŠEL
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Idoia VILLANUEVA RUIZ
Plenary Speeches (1)
- Alviina ALAMETSÄ
Plenary Speeches (1)
Votes
A9-0269/2020 - Reinhard Bütikofer - Am 1 #
2021/01/20 Outcome: +: 601, 0: 72, -: 16
The Left
NIA9-0269/2020 - Reinhard Bütikofer - Proposition de résolution #
2021/01/21 Outcome: +: 526, 0: 119, -: 43
| Amendments | Dossier |
| 326 |
2020/2115(INI)
2020/10/14
TRAN
72 amendments...
Amendment 1 #
Draft opinion Recital A (new) A. whereas big players have recognised in recent years the potential for transport connectivity and have taken the lead to pursue a strategic development of the global infrastructure; whereas a first step in this regard at EU level was taken in autumn 2018 with the adoption of the EU - Asia Connectivity Strategy;
Amendment 10 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure proper implementation of the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy by providing an effective political governance mechanism
Amendment 11 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure proper implementation of the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy by providing an effective political governance mechanism that could make the EU a rule setter and partner in transport connectivity, while promoting EU principles such as transparency, good governance
Amendment 12 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 a (new) 1a. Calls on the Commission to review its EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy taking into account the geopolitical changes occurred since its adoption and that the COVID-19 pandemic severely affected connectivity in the world; underlines that the EU must adapt its geopolitical presence and strategic planning to the current challenges in the ever changing globalised world;
Amendment 13 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 a (new) 1a. Notes the importance of the lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic and recognises therefore the importance of coordinated restoration of cross-border flows of goods to ensure that global transportation routes and supply chains remain open and secure;
Amendment 14 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 a (new) 1a. Recalls that connectivity can only be established with the consent of the states through which the means and infrastructure of transport pass and/or that host the terminus;
Amendment 15 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 b (new) 1b. Highlights the importance of harmonised international rules and technical and safety standards on connectivity for ensuring efficient, fair and smooth movement of people, goods, services and capital and for enabling interoperability of networks and trade across borders; calls on the Commission to promote the digitalisation and simplification of administrative formalities in order to speed up customs formalities;
Amendment 16 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 b (new) 1b. Considers that the Union has an opportunity to put its own attractive trade and investment system on the table, incentivising the countries of Eurasia to maintain an open economy and a level playing field for all foreign actors;
Amendment 17 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 c (new) 1c. Considers that the objective of the EU-Asia connectivity strategy is to ensure that countries that matter for the connectivity of the Union diversify their connectivity strategies, including the European Union alongside other large countries; considers that connectivity should not lead to dominion by other means;
Amendment 18 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Welcomes the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries, and calls on the Commission to speed up the review process of TEN-T and its external dimension and to come up with a comprehensive transport initiative to connect TEN-T with strategic networks in Asia; notes, however, that this comprehensive initiative based on transport network connectivity should not lead to economic disparities between Member States and third countries conditioned by their geographical location on the new ‘silk routes’ between the EU and Asia: in order to protect the interests of SMEs in the Member States that are involved in trade or transport with Asia, it is therefore imperative for this comprehensive initiative to incorporate safety rules and red lines for worker protection in the EU, fending off unfair competition from third countries;
Amendment 19 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. W
Amendment 2 #
Draft opinion Recital B (new) B. whereas contemporary transport is becoming increasingly multimodal and new opportunities for improving and further developing EU - Asia transport networks are arising, particularly in the rail and maritime sectors;
Amendment 20 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Welcomes the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries, and calls on the Commission to speed up the
Amendment 21 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Welcomes the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries, and calls on the Commission to speed up the review process of TEN-T and its external dimension and to come up with a comprehensive transport initiative to connect TEN-T with strategic networks in Asia; stresses the importance of sound project funding, focusing also on environmental, economic and social sustainability and creating real added value.
Amendment 22 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Welcomes the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries, and calls on the Commission to speed up the review process of TEN-T and its external dimension and to come up with a comprehensive, efficient and sustainable transport initiative to connect TEN-T with strategic networks in Asia, so as to ensure good connectivity with remote regions also;
Amendment 23 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Welcomes the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries, and calls on the Commission to speed up the review process of TEN-T and its external dimension and to come up with a comprehensive transport initiative to connect TEN-T with strategic networks in Asia; stresses the importance of internationally agreed procedures, rules, conventions and technical standards;
Amendment 24 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2.
Amendment 25 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 a (new) 2a. Strongly encourages a global coordinated approach by working closely with third countries to restore and maintain connectivity, resilient transportation infrastructure and industry in support of the global supply chain;
Amendment 26 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 a (new) 2a. Calls on the Commission, with the help of the ERA (European rail agency), to foster Euro Asian Rail transport by harmonising existing differences in legal rules for Euro-Asian rail transport;
Amendment 27 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 a (new) 2a. Stresses that the TEN-T network should have satisfactory cross-border connections with neighbouring countries, as well as a Eurasian outlook and a long train handling;
Amendment 28 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 b (new) 2b. Considers that the Commission should make a comprehensive plan of modal shift optimisation at Union level, taking into account the Green Deal, in parallel with the necessity to connect the Union to both Asia and Africa;
Amendment 29 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 b (new) 2b. Calls on the Commission to propose EU co-financing possibilities for the installation and upgrading of transhipment terminals in order to increase capacity on the existing trans- Eurasian rail corridors;
Amendment 3 #
Draft opinion Recital C (new) C. whereas the COVID-19 crisis has shown that transport continuity with Asia has been essential to guarantee the supply chain for all types of goods during the pandemic;
Amendment 30 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 c (new) 2c. Calls on the Commission to exploit the superior safety record of dangerous goods transport by rail and ensure that in particular Chinese authorities confirm the opening of China - EU rail services to the transport of dangerous goods under consideration of the safety measures and observance of the corresponding guidelines according to OTIF Annex 2 SMGS;
Amendment 31 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Stresses the importance of the ongoing negotiations of comprehensive air
Amendment 32 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Stresses the importance of the ongoing negotiations of comprehensive air transport agreements with partner countries in Asia, ensuring these agreements include the concern for climate change; calls in particular for a swift conclusion of the agreement between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is expected to connect more than a billion citizens; highlights the importance of EU support to Asian countries in mitigating the impact of civil aviation on climate change; underlines that the future of aviation relies on sustainable aviation fuel;
Amendment 33 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Stresses the importance of the ongoing negotiations of comprehensive air transport agreements with partner countries in Asia that end with any bilateral agreement still in force that limits free competition and movement; calls in particular for a swift conclusion of the agreement between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is expected to connect more than a billion citizens; highlights the importance of EU support to Asian countries in mitigating the impact of civil aviation on climate change;
Amendment 34 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3a. Recalls to the Commission the extremely negative impact of air transport on climate change; highlights that only a decrease of the traffic can reduce the impact of civil aviation on climate change; recalls that the foreseen agreement between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN) should not be responsible for unfair competition between companies and deregulation but rather focus on the protection of air transport workers rights;
Amendment 35 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3a. Notes that reciprocal overflight authorisations contribute to the fluidity of international trade; wonders about (no- cost) freedom of the air over the eastern part of the Russian Federation;
Amendment 36 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Calls on the Commission to pursue further progress in its maritime transport initiatives to digitalise and simplify administrative formalities and strengthen maritime security at ports in Asia via the International Maritime Organization and through maritime transport agreements; furthermore, calls on the Commission to promote the use of alternative fuels in ports in Europe and Asia; highlights the importance of further engaging with third countries in Asia through pertinent maritime transport agreements, which would help to regulate, facilitate and make more sustainable maritime traffic;
Amendment 37 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Calls on the Commission to pursue further progress in its maritime transport initiatives and to include all in bound, outbound and intra-EEA maritime shipping into the ETS as well as emissions at EU berth; furthermore, to digitalise and simplify administrative formalities and strengthen maritime security at ports in Asia via the International Maritime Organization and through maritime transport agreements;
Amendment 38 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Calls on the Commission to pursue further progress in its maritime transport initiatives to digitalise and simplify administrative formalities with a view to increasing transport flows in this sector and strengthen maritime safety and security at ports in Asia via the International Maritime Organization and through maritime transport agreements;
Amendment 39 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4a. Highlights the importance of rail connections and their future role in terms of investment perspectives; points out the necessity of ensuring an unified legal regime for the carriage of goods by rail across the Eurasian continent, extending the application of the EU’s technical specifications and creating new economic prospects by opening up markets and promoting investment opportunities;
Amendment 4 #
Draft opinion Recital D (new) D. whereas, in view of European ecological transition objectives, it is necessary to reflect on greenhouse gas emissions along EU-Asia transport routes; given the large volumes of freight, the use of sustainable transport modes could have a considerable impact on these emissions; the land route, which is the most efficient, is now set to be developed; attention should be paid to the transition to alternative energy (electricity or hydrogen) for transport purposes;
Amendment 40 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4a. Points to the dramatic situation of stranded sailors during the Covid-19 outbreak due to a lack of cooperation during the pandemic resulting in workers forced to stay abroad for months, calls on the Commission to strengthen maritime workers’ protection on a legal and effective level;
Amendment 41 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4a. Acknowledges that rail transport has a potential to further diversify transport modes in the Eurasian region, calls, therefore, on the Commission to step up its efforts to unify the legal framework for the carriage of goods by rail in the framework of UNECE1a; __________________ 1aUnited Nations Economic Commission for Europe;
Amendment 42 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4a. Regrets that political tensions or piracy in certain international maritime areas are jeopardising freedom of navigation on international routes;
Amendment 43 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4a. Notes that the EU connectivity strategy with Asia must fully respect the principle of reciprocity, market access, openness and fair competition on a level playing field.
Amendment 44 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 b (new) 4b. Stresses that the connectivity strategy must ensure that hauliers from Asia must adhere to Union legislation in the road transport sector. Calls for cooperation between the Commission and Member States in regards to enforcement of Union and national legislation in the sector.
Amendment 45 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 c (new) 4c. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to define and apply as an integral part of the EU-Asia connectivity strategy a minimum set of standards on environmental, health, passenger rights issues, in order to ensure that the Union is a norm-setter.
Amendment 46 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access and a level playing field for businesses in the area of transport infrastructure development with China
Amendment 47 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access
Amendment 48 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access only when respecting workers’ rights and environment preservation and a level playing field for businesses in the area of transport infrastructure development with China
Amendment 49 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of
Amendment 5 #
Draft opinion Recital E (new) E. whereas the EU-Asia transport links are unequalled anywhere else in the world in terms of freight volumes and distances travelled and it is necessary to factor in the variety of territories crossed and their stability in order to guarantee the safety and security of whatever mode of transport is used;
Amendment 50 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access
Amendment 51 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform and welcomes Commission`s in its efforts to explor
Amendment 52 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the
Amendment 53 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access and a level playing field
Amendment 54 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation and find synergies in the area of transport between the EU’s extended TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of working towards greater transparency, reciprocity in market access and a level playing field for businesses in the area of transport infrastructure development with China.
Amendment 55 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Highlights the importance of the ongoing work of the EU-China Connectivity Platform in its efforts to explore opportunities for cooperation in the area of transport between the EU’s TEN-T network and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); acknowledges the importance of
Amendment 56 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Points out the role of the EU’s external and development policy in promoting digital technologies, particularly in the less-developed countries, as digital infrastructure and high capacity network lines are critical for digital connectivity; stresses that data privacy, protection of personal data and cybersecurity must be ensured as these are indispensable for a safe and secure digital environment;
Amendment 57 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Acknowledges the benefits of alternative paths to growth and prosperity in the EU Member States through investment by third countries such as China; calls on the Commission to ensure EU compliance with investment, tendering and deficit rules with regard to major Belt and Road projects;
Amendment 58 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Urges the Union and its Member States to meet their obligations for their parts of the network and ensure effective administrative procedures, and urges them to increase the digitalisation of administrative processes as well as integrate new standards based on the Green Deal and the future regulation to achieve climate neutrality (European Climate Law);
Amendment 59 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Points out that the need for Europe to preserve its strategic infrastructure from foreign takeovers is a matter of sovereignty; underlines, in this connection, the need for contractual clauses in this area to be made as transparent as possible and uphold the essential interests of the Union.
Amendment 6 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure proper implementation of the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy
Amendment 60 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Encourages the Commission to take measures to concretely ensure fair and transparent competition between companies; urges to make sure Europeans can always access a large choice in operators and facilities;
Amendment 61 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Highlights furthermore the importance of new, sustainable transport initiatives with strategically important Asian countries, such as the promotion of railway connections between Europe, Central Asia and India.
Amendment 62 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Calls for full transparency on the construction contract for the Budapest - Beograd High-speed rail track; demands the details of the contract and its awarding terms to be declassified and published.
Amendment 63 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 b (new) 5b. Urges the Commission to establish a structured investment plan at Union level, in accordance with the socio- economic and environmental priority criteria approved in advance by the Commission and Parliament; urges, in this regard, that the Commission and the EEAS stay vigil in case EU Member States and Asian to-be-connected countries make investments based on patronage networks of political stakeholders;
Amendment 64 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 b (new) 5b. Underlines the importance of European outermost regions, especially those that are closer to Asia and highlights their economic potential; encourages the Commission to facilitate investments in those territories in order to strengthen their connectivity and boost their economy;
Amendment 65 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 b (new) 5b. Calls for rapid completion of the EU-China rail link study, including train interoperability and coordination between European rail companies;
Amendment 66 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 c (new) 5c. Encourages the Commission to take specific rules to ensure that the principles of the “European way” : a sustainable, comprehensive and rules- based connectivity - are taken into consideration and respected by all our partners; underlines that the EU and Asia could work better together in order to improve the regulatory environment, public financial management and the mobilisation of domestic resources; urges the Commission to step up cooperation with relevant third countries to promote this European Way and promote a level playing field in investment;
Amendment 67 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 c (new) 5c. Calls on economic sanctions on European governmental and commercial organisations implicated in human rights violations and abuses perpetrated in third countries with strong commercial ties with the Union, in order to prevent and discourage complicity with human rights' violations that may constitute crimes against humanity under international law;
Amendment 68 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 d (new) 5d. Highlights that the multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027 aims at encouraging investments in connectivity with tools such as an investment framework for external action or geographical investment facilities, such as the Neighbourhood Investment Facility (NIF), the Investment Facility for Central Asia (IFCA) and the Asia Investment Facility (AIF); asks the Commission to ensures these investments comply with the principles of the “European way” as described in this Communication;
Amendment 69 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 e (new) 5e. Urges that connectivity policies should reduce negative externalities, such as environmental impact and pollution, highlights the importance of sustainability throughout this strategy, and the role of the EU in the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement through the promotion of circular economy and climate resilient investments;
Amendment 7 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1.
Amendment 70 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 f (new) 5f. Asks the Commission to promote EU-wide rules, such as EU state aid control and procurement rules; underlines the need for reciprocity in the accessibility of public procurement across partners; asks to ensure that procurement processes are open and transparent in order for companies to enjoy a level- playing field, regardless of their nationality;
Amendment 71 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 g (new) 5g. Underlines that the EU is committed to the freedom of navigation and a sustainable governance of oceans and seas; highlights the importance of safe, secure, clean and sustainably managed oceans around the world; encourages the EU to make sure our Asian partners transition to sustainable blues economies respecting biodiversity and the environment;
Amendment 72 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 h (new) 5h. Underlines the importance of data safety as the mobility of people and goods rely extensively on data transfer; urges for the adequate security and cybersecurity when managing these flows; reminds that these challenges cannot be addressed solely through national policies; therefore encourages the EU to engage with Asian partner countries to make transport connectivity with Asia safer and more secure;
Amendment 8 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure proper implementation of the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy by providing an effective political governance mechanism that could make the EU a rule setter in transport connectivity, while promoting EU principles such as transparency, accountability, good governance and sustainability; considers that transport and infrastructure connectivity in terms of Eurasian land bridges, transport corridors, sea routes and rail links go hand in hand with promoting people-to-people exchanges, policy coordination, trade and capital flows;
Amendment 9 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to ensure proper implementation of the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy by providing an effective political governance mechanism that could make the EU a rule setter in transport connectivity, while promoting EU principles such as transparency, good governance and sustainability; fully recognises the special role of China as a systemic rival to the European union and a global power promoting alternative models of governance, as well as the role of infrastructure projects in the heart of China’s long-term foreign policy strategy;
source: 658.991
2020/10/20
INTA
41 amendments...
Amendment 1 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1.
Amendment 10 #
2.
Amendment 11 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 a (new) 2 a. Believes that under the Commission’s strategy of open strategic autonomy supply chain resilience will be heightened through a trusted network of actors who can be reliable partners to develop common risk coordination mechanisms, methods and standards for assessment, share information and expectations, and have an active dialogue with governments, firms, and investors. European and Asian states should retain multilateral efforts and region-to-region dialogue where possible to foster sustainable and rules-based economic networks in Eurasia.
Amendment 12 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 a (new) 2 a. Considers that the objective of the EU-Asia connectivity strategy is to ensure that countries that matter for the connectivity of the Union diversify their connectivity strategies, including the European Union alongside other large countries;considers that connectivity should not lead to dominion by other means;
Amendment 13 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 b (new) 2 b. Calls on economic sanctions on European governmental and commercial organisations implicated inhuman rights violations and abuses perpetrated in third countries with strong commercial ties with the Union, in order to prevent and discourage complicity with human rights' violations that may constitute crimes against humanity under international law;
Amendment 14 #
3. Believes that efficient and sustainable connections and networks between Europe and Asia through priority transport corridors, including air, sea and land transport, and high-capacity network links as well as more efficient and reliable customs procedures, that build on digitalisation and administrative simplification, will increase trade flows between the EU and Asia; acknowledges the existence of an investment gap in connectivity and recognises the need to mobilise and strengthen cooperation with private investors, national and international institutions, and multilateral development banks; Stresses that the facilitation of trade between the EU and Asian partners through improved connectivity should at the same time result in the strengthening of customs performance and management, notably in enforcing Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), as a tool to fight against fraud and prevent counterfeit goods entering the single market;
Amendment 15 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Believes that efficient connections and networks between Europe and Asia through priority transport corridors, including air, sea and land transport, and high-capacity network links will increase trade flows between the EU and Asia in a manner that is sustainable; acknowledges the existence of an investment gap in connectivity and
Amendment 16 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Believes that efficient and environmentally sustainable connections and networks between Europe and Asia through priority transport corridors, including air, sea and land transport, and high-capacity network links will increase trade flows between the EU and Asia; acknowledges the existence of an investment gap in connectivity and recognises the need to mobilise and strengthen cooperation with
Amendment 17 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 3. Believes that efficient connections and networks between Europe and Asia
Amendment 18 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3 a. Underlines the importance of the EU strategic relationship with China and calls on the Members States and Institutions to address China with one voice and adopt a coordinated approach. Emphasises the need to ensure a level playing field, reciprocity and a non- discriminatory treatment of the respective parties, business communities and civil society. Reiterates calls on China to move forward on an ambitious reform of the WTO, including comprehensive rules on industrial subsidies, and recognises the concerns regarding market-distorting practices of Chinese State-Owned Enterprises, forced technology transfers and data localisation, overcapacities and related dumped exports, and other unfair trading practices. Believes that extending the level playing field to third markets is of paramount importance for the long- term opportunities of European businesses.
Amendment 19 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3 a. Recalls the potential of New Arctic shipping routes of reducing by up to 40 percent the time and distance between Europe and Asia, creating new trading hubs, with a significant impact on trade flows; Stresses that the management of these new routes should be sustainable and in line with international rules and norms, preventing any additional pressure on the Arctic ecosystem;
Amendment 2 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Believes that as Asia is home to the world’s largest population and fastest- growing economies, increasing connectivity between the EU and Asia, with an open, rules-based multilateral trading system that ensures a level playing field, will play a key role in global stability, in regional prosperity and in mutual
Amendment 20 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3 a. Acknowledges the new Arctic shipping and trade route opening from Asia to North Europe and vice versa which is up to 40% shorter than the conventional southern shipping route; underlines that through a comprehensive Arctic Strategy, the EU must actively engage in the Arctic region while promoting sustainable development and environmental objectives;
Amendment 21 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 a (new) 3 a. Stresses the need to rethink the transport and connectivity model in order to support the ecological transition and the fight against climate change; invites the Commission to develop a sustainable mobility development model with all Asian partners consistent with the objectives of the Paris agreement and the green deal.
Amendment 22 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 b (new) 3 b. Recognises the potential for EU to cooperate with China's “Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) development strategy to build connectivity and cooperation across economic corridors and to connect the Eurasian continent from China to Europe. Believes that the EU should also try to engage China to ensure the BRI meets international standards. Securing fair competition on third markets by upholding multilateral economic governance practices is vital; Is of the view that the Commission should further analyse the potential to collaborate with China in connecting BRI in its TEN-T Corridor Studies to prevent possible bottlenecks and transport constraints: Expresses concern that China funded projects lack transparent bidding processes and are predominately completed by Chinese companies that are significantly less open to local or international companies; calls on China to increase reciprocity, especially in the infrastructure sector, to improve transparency, to prioritise high labour and environmental standards and to ensure debt sustainability.
Amendment 23 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 3 c (new) 3 c. Regrets that the EU’s Connecting Europe and Asia strategy has not attracted the same attention as the BRI in Central Asia in terms of connectivity in the region. Supports the Commissions efforts in dismantling trade barriers underpinned by sustainable, rules-based connectivity that includes tackling non- physical and regulatory barriers to movement as well as infrastructure. Countries in Central Asia have benefited significantly from increased integration into the global economy over the past two decades. Opines that the EU should play a much bigger role and become one of the key players in the region using trade and investment as a driver of growth, contributing to shared prosperity.
Amendment 24 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Underlines the importance of the existing network of bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and the bilateral cooperation between the EU and Asian partners, with successful examples of strategic partnerships in Japan, South Korea and Singapore; considers that provisions on e-commerce and digital trade in trade agreements should serve the purpose of the objectives of the digital pillar of the Connectivity Strategy; notes that the Adequacy Decision with Japan sets the example for furthering digital integration between the EU and its Partners; regarding data flows, notes that the EU side has already tabled proposals in negotiations with Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand and Chile, which should also be building blocks for other plurilateral or multilateral initiatives, and always fully in line with the EU acquis on data protection, namely the GDPR;
Amendment 25 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Underlines the importance of the existing network of bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and the bilateral cooperation between the EU and Asian partners, with successful examples of strategic partnerships in Japan, South Korea and Singapore; Recognises that the ASEAN region is the EU's third largest trading partner outside Europe, after the US and China, and ensuring better access for EU exporters to the this market and enhancing cooperation through strategic partnerships and investment protection agreements should be a priority for the EU. In this respect, opines, that negotiations with Taiwan on a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) should be conducted.
Amendment 26 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Underlines the importance of the existing network of bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and the bilateral cooperation between the EU and Asian partners, with successful examples of strategic partnerships in Japan, South Korea and Singapore; urges the Commission to swiftly start a scoping exercise and an impact assessment in preparation for negotiations on an investment agreement with Taiwan, which could play an important role in the EU’s supply chain and its Connectivity Strategy in the region;
Amendment 27 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Underlines the importance of the existing network of bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and the
Amendment 28 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 4. Underlines the importance of the existing network of bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and the bilateral cooperation between the EU and Asian partners, with successful examples of strategic partnerships in Japan, South Korea and Singapore; welcomes the new GI agreement with China and the possibility to develop stronger cooperation in the future; Urges to effectively implement the TSD chapters of these agreements;
Amendment 29 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4 a. calls on the EU Member States and candidate countries to consider leaving the 17+1 format which can be counterproductive to speaking with one voice and undermining the unity of the European Union and encourages instead to pursue a common and unified EU policy towards China;
Amendment 3 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Believes that as Asia is home to the world’s largest population and fastest- growing economies, increasing connectivity between the EU and Asia, with an open, rules-based multilateral trading system that ensures a level playing field, will play a key role in mutual economic
Amendment 30 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4 a. Calls on the Commission to strengthen provisions on standardisation in trade agreements, by seeking binding commitments on the uptake of international standards and by stepping up open and transparent regulatory cooperation without infringing on the right to regulate;
Amendment 31 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 a (new) 4 a. Urges the Commission to prioritise connectivity with those countries in the region that respect human rights, the rule of law and democracy;
Amendment 32 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 b (new) 4 b. Takes note of the decision to suspend the EBA scheme with Cambodia and underlines its concern with regard to the still worsening human rights situation in the country; urges the Commission to come up with a clear strategy to keep engaging with the country, aiming at reinstating Cambodia into the scheme; is of the view that the Commission and the EEAS should have a more strategic approach to GSP, including by stepping up action at the highest political level and with a view to strengthening the effectiveness of the instrument in improving the beneficiary countries’ record in implementing human rights, international labour, environmental and good governance standards;
Amendment 33 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 b (new) 4 b. Considers that the Union has an opportunity to put its own attractive trade and investment system on the table, incentivising the countries of Eurasia to maintain an open economy and a level playing field for all foreign actors;
Amendment 34 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 4 c (new) 4 c. urges the Commission not to prioritise the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment with China over the Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) to be made with the Republic of China (Taiwan), but to commit to finalise the latter over the former if the parties may reach accords faster;
Amendment 35 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the enforcement of trade agreements and make existing ones more ambitious, in particular by promoting sustainable EU norms and standards
Amendment 36 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the enforcement of trade agreements and make existing ones more ambitious, in particular by promoting sustainable EU norms and standards; welcomes the recent initiatives and commitments to making the Paris Agreement an essential elements of trade and investment agreements or to improving the enforceability of trade and sustainable development chapters, since these are key tools to anchor the design and development of the Connectivity Strategy on sustainable integration; calls on the Commission and the Council to engage on the basis of concrete proposals without delay.
Amendment 37 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the enforcement of trade agreements and make existing ones more ambitious, in particular by promoting sustainable EU norms and standards; Calls on the Commission to implement fully trade defence instruments to ensure that European businesses are not subjected to unfair trading practices and tackle distortions in prices and costs that are not a result of free market forces.
Amendment 38 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the enforcement of trade agreements and make existing ones more ambitious, in particular by promoting sustainable EU norms and standards, in line with the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Goals, and by introducing the enforceability of TSD chapters including via last resort sanctions-based mechanism.
Amendment 39 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the enforcement of trade agreements and make existing ones more ambitious, in particular by promoting sustainable EU
Amendment 4 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 1. Believes that as Asia is home to the world’s largest population and fastest- growing economies, increasing efficient and sustainable connectivity between the EU and Asia, with an open, rules-based multilateral trading system that ensures a level playing field
Amendment 40 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 5. Calls on the Commission to ensure the
Amendment 41 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 5 a (new) 5 a. Recalls that EU and Asia are important partners on sustainable development, notably on the delivery of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, and that the promotion of efficient and sustainable connectivity is an essential element, together with trade, of a broader strategic partnership with Asian partners.
Amendment 5 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 a (new) 1 a. believes that the ongoing development projects of transport networks between the EU and Asian countries, including the belt and road initiative, can be an opportunity to foster collaboration between the EU and the Asian continent;
Amendment 6 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 1 b (new) 1 b. deplores that in the past, Europe looked at connectivity only as an issue of ensuring transport from the Peripherie to the centre; notes that many regions of Asia were neglected by European connectivity strategies over a long time; sees positive elements in China's connectivity approach with its offer of project ownership and increased share in benefits for cities and regions along the road from Asia to Europe; is convinced that Europe has to offer a lot of added value to the building of the physical connection of Europe and Asia through its advanced project experience in environmental impact assessment and involvement and participation of local population;
Amendment 7 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Believes that trade policy should be instrumental in achieving the objectives of the Connectivity Strategy, by strengthening economic integration with partner countries based on sustainable development, multilateralism, transparency, fairness, level-playing field and international standards; Regrets that many countries
Amendment 8 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Stresses that the EU-Asia connectivity strategy should go hand in hand with efforts to increase access to respective markets, including public procurement, and promote an open and transparent investment environment, unlocking opportunities and contributing to global competitiveness; Regrets that many countries in Asia still apply protectionist economic policies creating an unfair playing field for
Amendment 9 #
Draft opinion Paragraph 2 2. Regrets that
source: 659.053
2020/11/24
AFET
213 amendments...
Amendment 1 #
Motion for a resolution Citation 1 — having regard to the Global
Amendment 10 #
Motion for a resolution Recital A b (new) A b. whereas due to the Covid-19 pandemic the importance of a functioning connectivity strategy has been further underlined, since both the weaknesses and the strengths of the European and global connectivity networks became clearly visible during the pandemic;
Amendment 100 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders including the financing institutions is essential for the success of the strategy considering the existing investment gaps in this area; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international
Amendment 101 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders is essential for the success of the strategy; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international connectivity including business representatives,
Amendment 102 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders is essential for the success of the strategy; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international
Amendment 103 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders is essential for the success of the strategy; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international connectivity including business representatives, human rights, environmental and labour rights advocates,
Amendment 104 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders, including the EU’s financing institutions, is essential for the success of the strategy; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international connectivity including business representatives, human rights, environmental and labour rights advocates, and international financial institutions, including experts from the EIB as the EU Bank;
Amendment 105 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the
Amendment 106 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 11. Believes that the inclusion of relevant stakeholders is essential for the success of the strategy; recommends the creation of a High Level Expert Group as an advisory body on international connectivity including business representatives, human rights, environmental and labour rights advocates,
Amendment 107 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European
Amendment 108 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European development banks should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects in particular with regard to
Amendment 109 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European development banks with a special focus of the European Investment Bank should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects in particular with regard to the mobilisation of private sector investment but also to provide advice on investment needs or existing frameworks;
Amendment 11 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B b (new) B b. whereas the COVID-19 crisis highlighted the need for a stronger global response and greater sharing of best practices across borders; whereas the post Covid-19 economic stimulus provides a new opportunity and can be used as a turning moment to steer investments to be more sustainable, more digital and green while boosting our connectivity agendas for more resilience;
Amendment 110 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European
Amendment 111 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European development banks with a special focus of the European Investment Bank and EU financial programs, such as the Invest EU, should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects in particular with regard to the mobilisation of private sector investment;
Amendment 112 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 12. Strongly believes that European development banks should play a central role in managing investment in international connectivity projects in particular with regard to the mobilisation of private sector investment, differentiating investment policies based on the country’s level of development;
Amendment 113 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 a (new) 12 a. Stresses that a credible connectivity strategy needs to be equipped with the necessary tools and means to implement it on a scale that matches the ambition; commends the high amount of EU funding for international cooperation, in particular the considerable size of grants, also in comparison to other major global powers; criticises that public awareness of the EU’s international contributions to the promotion and financing of connectivity policies has been underdeveloped; considers that to achieve the goals of the Strategy adequate public resources should be allocated both within the framework of the future NDICI and IPA III regulations using in particular the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+) and the External Action Guarantee and also by taking an innovative approach to other financial instruments at the EU’s disposal to support EU external engagement; also emphasizes the option of helping partner countries to develop indigenous financing mechanisms;
Amendment 114 #
11 b. Highlights that the multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027 should continue encouraging investments in connectivity with tools such as an investment framework for external action or geographical investment facilities;
Amendment 115 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 a (new) 12 a. While other global actors largely focus on loans, highlights and commends the fact that the EU has spent from 2014 - 2018 EUR 345 billion as development aid in grants and has FDI stocks of EUR 12 trillion, therefore in this light implores the lack of proportionate visibility of the EU and calls for adequate changes to be implemented without delay; furthermore underlines the need to develop an adjacent communication policy to the Connectivity Strategy and calls for a clearer communication of its benefits and long term goals in order to ensure the necessary support for its success; in this light points to the potential of possible flagship projects which should be envisaged;
Amendment 116 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 c (new) 12 c. Believes that the connectivity strategy while following a multi- dimensional approach should be clearly focused on a set of defining priorities; congratulates therefore the German rotating Council presidency for pushing the EU’s connectivity agenda and prominently including connectivity in the Trio Programme of the German, Portuguese and Slovenian European Council presidencies; emphasizes the importance of identifying flagship projects for the relevant sectors to demonstrate also the EU’s unique values- based approach; calls upon the Commission and EEAS to propose criteria for identifying such projects, including in the context of the ongoing programming process for the MFF 2021-2027 period;
Amendment 117 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 11 a (new) 11 a. Stresses that it is essential to partner up with the private sector and mobilise private investments;
Amendment 118 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 a (new) 12 a. Emphasis that the European Parliament should play an important oversight role, by shaping Strategy’s priorities and providing budgetary discharge;
Amendment 119 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 12 b (new) 12 b. Welcomes initiatives such as the G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment and UNEA Resolution 4/5 on sustainable infrastructure; encourages the Commission, the EEAS and the Member States to promote the EU’s strategic approach to international connectivity in all multilateral and plurilateral fora like for instance UNGA or ASEM or the G7; advocates to team up with other international actors in order to make the flow of funds to connectivity programmes conditional upon the adoption of the voluntary G20 principles;
Amendment 12 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the global promotion of human rights, and effective multilateralism ; whereas it should build on Europe’s strength in trade policy, and address newly urgent challenges such as global health and security; whereas connectivity is already an essential component of a large number of EU strategies; whereas coherence and visibility of all connectivity policies should be enhanced; whereas global connectivity has an impact on European competitiveness as well as that of third countries;
Amendment 120 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the fight against climate change, for the decarbonisation of economies, for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment should be an overarching priority of the Strategy, in particular with regard to quality infrastructure development; calls for a systematic greening of all connectivity investments;
Amendment 121 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the fight against climate change, for the decarbonisation of economies, for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment, the promotion of a circular economy and the reduction of low greenhouse gas emissions should be an overarching priority of the Strategy, in particular with regard to infrastructure development; calls for a systematic greening of all connectivity investments; notes that the green transition and the systematic greening of all connectivity investments should be socially just and sustainable; attaches high priority to the greening of
Amendment 122 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13.
Amendment 123 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the fight against climate change, for the decarbonisation of economies, for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment should be an overarching priority of the Strategy, in particular with regard to infrastructure development; calls for a systematic greening of all connectivity investments; attaches high priority to the greening of development cooperation, infrastructure investment across the board, and in particular the energy dimension; points out that maintaining the existing infrastructure for environmentally friendly modes of transport in Europe and beyond is central.
Amendment 124 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the fight against climate change, for the decarbonisation of economies, for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment should be an overarching priority of the Strategy, in particular with regard to infrastructure development; calls for a systematic greening of all connectivity investments; attaches high priority to the greening of development cooperation, infrastructure investment across the board, and in particular the energy dimension; the above- mentioned goals must be pursued with a rational and calibrated approach for short, medium and long term strategies;
Amendment 125 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the
Amendment 126 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 13 13. Believes that the fight against climate change, for the decarbonisation of economies, for the preservation of biodiversity and the environment should be an
Amendment 127 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation
Amendment 128 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation on a par with the US and China leveraging on its existing assets such as European telecoms operators; considers, in this context, the promotion of digital connectivity through very high capacity networks based on fibre and 5G a high priority for the EU; believes that the development of open strategic autonomy in this sector must include diversification of the supply chain of equipment manufacturers through the promotion of open and interoperable network architectures such as Open RAN and digitalisation partnerships with third countries; underlines that the EU should aim at co-
Amendment 129 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14.
Amendment 13 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity
Amendment 130 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation on a par with the US and China; considers, in this context, the promotion of digital connectivity a high priority for the EU; believes that the development of open strategic autonomy in this sector must include digitalisation partnerships with third countries who share our values and who deploy technology in full respect of fundamental rights; underlines that the EU should aim at co- leadership in setting and defending international standards and practices and to lead the way in defining such international standards in accordance with European values;
Amendment 131 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the
Amendment 132 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation on a par with the US and China; considers, in this context, the promotion of digital connectivity a high priority for the EU; believes that the development of open strategic autonomy in this sector must include digitalisation partnerships with third countries; underlines that the EU should aim at co- leadership in setting and defending international standards and practices; notes that the EU should be a norm-setter rather than norm-taker in the field of digital connectivity, digitalisation and data protection;
Amendment 133 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation on a par with the US and China; considers, in this context, the promotion of digital connectivity and digital access as a high priority for the EU; believes that there must be emphasis on a sustainable, comprehensive and rules- based connectivity; believes that the development of open strategic autonomy in this sector must include digitalisation partnerships with third countries; underlines that the EU should aim at co- leadership in setting and defending international standards and practices;
Amendment 134 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to step up their ambition for the digital transformation; expects the EU to become a competitive global actor in digitalisation on a par with the US and China; considers, in this context, the promotion of digital connectivity a high priority for the EU; believes that the development of open strategic autonomy in this sector must include digitalisation
Amendment 135 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 a (new) 14 a. Welcomes the provisions for cybersecurity in the Digital Europe Programme as regards the tender process; advocates the inclusion of the 5G toolbox’ approach in digital connectivity promotion given its extraterritorial application possibilities; encourages Commission to work towards replicating the EU international mobile roaming agreement with connectivity partners; welcomes investment into digital infrastructure projects like for instance the Building Europe Link to Latin America (BELLA) deep sea cable; proposes Commission to promote 6G development cooperation with like-minded countries as a flagship project;
Amendment 136 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 b (new) 14 b. Stresses that 5G infrastructure is the backbone of the future digital society and economy and a strategic element in Europe’s strategic resilience; calls on the Commission to elaborate a plan for developing European 5G and for phasing- out of 5G technology built by third countries who do not share European values and ethical standards;
Amendment 137 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 a (new) 14 a. Underlines that rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence and new technologies provide non-democratic regimes with ample opportunities to use technology to restrictor infringe upon the rights of their citizens; urges the Commission to strongly condition connectivity projects with third countries on the ethical use of technology, both domestically and abroad;
Amendment 138 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 a (new) 14 a. Considers it important to step up the efforts of the Commission and Member States in confronting cyber threats, improving cyber defence and increase fight against disinformation; in that regard considers it necessary to review the mandate of EEAS Strategic Communications Division to include foreign interference by emerging actors;
Amendment 139 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 14 a (new) 14 a. Supports stronger inter-European cooperation and coordination between key transport, communication and tech infrastructure providers, in order to strengthen European autonomy in critical sectors and better protect EU’s critical infrastructure including its digital sovereignty;
Amendment 14 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the global promotion of human rights; whereas it should build on Europe’s strength in trade policy and diplomacy, and address newly urgent challenges such as global health and security, as well as addressing long-term challenges such as fighting terrorism, human rights abuses and poverty;
Amendment 140 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 15 15. Believes that the people-to-people dimension is a fundamental pillar of the Strategy requiring further prioritisation; highlights the need for adequate public diplomacy financing; puts great emphasis on the promotion of people-to-people contacts among students, vocational trainees, young professionals, academics, civil society, NGOs and researchers as key to mutual understanding and respect; advocates such cooperation based on inclusiveness; calls in particular for the strengthening of the
Amendment 141 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 15 15. Believes that the people-to-people dimension is a fundamental pillar of the Strategy requiring further prioritisation hence call for reciprocal access of Europe to Asia, and in this regard deplores, for example, the restricted access to Tibet; puts great emphasis on the promotion of people-to-people contacts among students, vocational trainees, young professionals, academics and researchers as key to mutual understanding and respect; advocates such cooperation based on inclusiveness; calls in particular for the strengthening of the youth dimension through youth fora to mutually promote foreign language proficiency, student and academic exchanges, and the mutual recognition of diplomas;
Amendment 142 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 15 15. Believes that the people-to-people dimension is a fundamental pillar of the Strategy requiring further prioritisation; puts great emphasis on the promotion of people-to-people contacts among students, vocational trainees, young professionals, academics and researchers as key to mutual understanding and respect; advocates such cooperation based on inclusiveness and gender equality; calls in particular for the strengthening of the youth dimension through youth fora to mutually promote foreign language proficiency, student and academic exchanges, and the mutual recognition of diplomas;
Amendment 143 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 15 15. Believes that the people-to-people dimension is a fundamental pillar of the Strategy requiring further prioritisation; puts great emphasis on the promotion of people-to-people contacts among students, vocational trainees, young professionals, academics and researchers as key to mutual understanding and respect; advocates such cooperation based on inclusiveness and reciprocity; calls in particular for the strengthening of the youth dimension through youth fora to mutually promote foreign language proficiency, student and academic exchanges, and the mutual recognition of
Amendment 144 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 16 16. Commends the initiatives adopted for the Western Balkans aiming to promote youth cooperation and exchanges, as well as vocational education and training, and encourages offering similar programmes to other partners of the Connectivity Strategy, starting with the Eastern Partnership countries; points out, however, that connectivity issues should not blind us to the fact that in overall terms the accession of the countries of the Western Balkans to the European Union would bring more drawbacks than advantages;
Amendment 145 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 16 16. Commends the initiatives adopted for the Western Balkans aiming to promote youth cooperation and exchanges, as well as vocational education and training, and encourages offering similar programmes to other partners of the Connectivity Strategy, starting with the Eastern Partnership countries; notes that connectivity between the EU and the Western Balkans is integral for the EU Connectivity Strategy considering the countries of the region are prospective members of the Union
Amendment 146 #
Motion for a resolution Subheading 6 a (new) Points out that more concerted action is needed in order to enhance the cooperation between the EU and Asia in the fields of education, research, innovation and culture;
Amendment 147 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 16 a (new) 16 a. Commends the organisation of the EU-ASEAN Young Leaders Forum and Strategic Thinkers Forum in February 2018 as well as the ASEF Young Leaders Summit alongside ASEM Summits; proposes to repeat these efforts regularly and to establish such annual fora also within the framework of the EU-African Union relationship;
Amendment 148 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 16 b (new) 16 b. Calls on Commission align the Strategy and the forthcoming EU Strategy on Cooperation in Research and Investment; calls on the Commission to pursue its strategic approach to cooperation in Research and Innovation (R&I) by upgrading relations with like- minded partners, including by considering the associated-partner status, and by basing the cooperation on such universal principles as academic freedom, open access, protection of intellectual property, level-playing field, research integrity, and protection of personal data; encourages the tailoring of country specific research cooperation policies; highlights the importance of setting up criteria to identify sensitive sectors in the field of R&I, including in the area of dual-use technology;
Amendment 149 #
Motion for a resolution Subheading 7 Trade, Investment, Competitiveness and Standards
Amendment 15 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the
Amendment 150 #
Motion for a resolution Subheading 7 a (new) Notes that the EU should strengthen its links with the host countries and present them with a credible and sustainable alternative offer for connectivity financing;
Amendment 151 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 16 c (new) 16 c. Believes that the people-to-people dimension is essential also for basing competitiveness on the EU’s values and for effective European economic diplomacy;
Amendment 152 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 17. Highlights the importance of trade and investment in achieving the objectives of the Strategy; emphasises, in this context, in particular the role of international norms and standards; is of the view that the EU model of standardisation policy has the advantage of being innovative, open and
Amendment 153 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 17.
Amendment 154 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 17. Highlights the importance of trade and investment in achieving the objectives of the Strategy; emphasises, in this context, in particular the role of international
Amendment 155 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 17. Highlights the importance of trade and investment in achieving the objectives of the Strategy; emphasises, in this context, in particular, trade agreements negotiated by the EU and the role of international norms and standards
Amendment 156 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 a (new) 17 a. Notes that the EU emphasis must be on sustainability and the investments should respect labor rights, not create political or financial dependencies, and guarantee a level playing field for businesses;
Amendment 157 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 a (new) 17 a. Notes the importance of a level playing field and reciprocity in the areas of investment and public procurement
Amendment 158 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 18 18. Believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgency of prioritising the health sector as a new crucial area for cooperation, in particular on the resilience of health systems, access to medicines, medical equipment and vaccines, avoiding one-sided dependencies, ensuring safe and diverse pharmaceutical and health-related industrial supply chains, and exchange of best practices in crisis management and pandemic prevention policies; proposes to link the efforts of the EU’s Health Union to the Strategy and to partner with other regional mechanisms like the ASEAN Infectious Disease Control Center; emphasizes that health connectivity should be used by the EU to learn from examples of successful pandemic management by like-minded partners such as in New Zealand, the Republic of Korea or Taiwan;
Amendment 159 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 18 18. Believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgency of prioritising the health sector as a new crucial area for cooperation, in particular on the resilience of health systems, access to medicines, medical equipment and vaccines, avoiding one-sided dependencies, ensuring safe and diverse pharmaceutical and health-related industrial supply chains, and exchange of best practices in crisis management and pandemic prevention policies; notes however, that the Union should pursue and demand a transparent, coherent and independent investigation on the reasons for the initial outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in China.; calls on the Chinese authorities to grant access to independent international experts with the aim to review the reasons for the outbreak of COVID-19;
Amendment 16 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy must rely on a sustainable and rules-based approach and should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the global promotion of human rights; whereas it should build on Europe’s strength in trade policy, and address newly urgent challenges such as global health and security;
Amendment 160 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 18 18. Believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgency of prioritising the health sector as a new crucial area for cooperation, in particular on the resilience of health systems, access
Amendment 161 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 18 18. Believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgency of prioritising the health sector as a new crucial area for cooperation, in particular on the resilience of health systems, access to medicines, medical equipment and vaccines, avoiding one-sided dependencies, ensuring safe and diverse pharmaceutical and health-related industrial supply chains, and exchange of best practices in crisis management and pandemic prevention policies and reciprocity in managing travel and open borders;
Amendment 162 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 18 a (new) Amendment 163 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 17 b (new) 17 b. Welcomes the adoption of the EU Economic and Investment plan for the Western Balkans and the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries which is to be viewed as a key element of the EU-Asia connectivity strategy, given its geographical position;
Amendment 164 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 a (new) 20 a. States that the TRACECA is an important programme; therefore, calls on the Commission to take into consideration the recommendation of the European Economic and Social Council 2015 opinion urging the EU to speed up the development of a sustainable infrastructure chain, ensuring multi- modal transport (notably rail and road infrastructure) through linking the corridor with the Trans-European Transport Networks (TEN-Ts);
Amendment 165 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed in order for the EU to keep abreast of new security challenges; highlights growing security concerns
Amendment 166 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed in order for the EU to keep abreast of new security challenges, including cybersecurity; highlights growing security concerns emanating from the EU’s Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood; urges the EEAS and the Member States to play a more proactive role on these issues; emphasizes the need to develop a stronger security partnership with the African continent; recalls the 2018 Council conclusions on Enhanced EU Security Cooperation in and with Asia; takes note of the increasing relevancy of security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region for the EU as expressed in Indo-Pacific strategies of Member States; supports the initiative for developing a common EU Indo-Pacific strategy and cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific region including military-to-military exchanges; believes that openness, prosperity, inclusiveness, sustainability, transparency, reciprocity and viability should be guiding principles in the cooperation with the Indo-Pacific region;
Amendment 167 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed in order for the EU to keep abreast of new security challenges, including digital connectivity, critical infrastructure and potential dual use of technology; highlights growing security concerns emanating from the EU’s Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood; urges the EEAS and the Member States to play a more proactive role on these issues;
Amendment 168 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed and that a geopolitical view to global cooperation be kept in mind in order for the EU to
Amendment 169 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed in order for the EU to keep abreast of new security challenges; stresses the severity of the terrorist threat; highlights growing security concerns emanating from the EU’s Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood; urges the EEAS and the Member States to play a more proactive role on these issues;
Amendment 17 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as economic recovery, the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the global promotion of human rights; whereas it should build on Europe’s strength in trade policy, and address newly urgent
Amendment 170 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 19 19. Is convinced that the Strategy’s security dimension must urgently be developed in order for the EU to keep abreast of new security challenges; highlights growing security concerns emanating from the EU’s Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood, as well as concerns relating to cyber-crime; urges the EEAS and the Member States to play a more proactive role on these issues;
Amendment 171 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 20. Strongly welcomes the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa;
Amendment 172 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 20. Strongly welcomes the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa; applauds Japan for pro-actively proposing practical steps to realise agreed ambitions; hopes that the EU and Japan will manage to kick- start the operationalisation of the partnership in the first half of 2021; calls, in the context of connectivity at the level of the Eurasian continent, for consideration to be given to a partnership with Russia, in the light of that country's key strategic position and the economic opportunities it offers, particularly in the energy sphere;
Amendment 173 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 20. Strongly welcomes the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa; applauds Japan for pro-actively proposing practical
Amendment 174 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 20. Strongly welcomes the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality Infrastructure, with its focus on the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Indo-Pacific and Africa; applauds Japan for pro-actively proposing practical steps to realise agreed ambitions; welcomes increased coordination between the EIB and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); hopes that the EU and Japan will manage to kick-
Amendment 175 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 20 20. Strongly welcomes the establishment of the EU-Japan Partnership on Sustainable Connectivity and Quality
Amendment 176 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward;
Amendment 177 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward; notes the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity Initiative; takes note of India’s participation in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC); welcomes also the EU-
Amendment 178 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity
Amendment 179 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward; welcomes also the EU- Korean exploratory exchanges on a connectivity partnership, and hopes it will make good headway in 2021; advocates the establishment of an EU-ASEAN connectivity partnership aiming at interconnecting with ASEAN’s already existing Connectivity Master Plan and project pipeline; encourages the establishment of an EU-Taiwan connectivity partnership to exchange on Taiwan’s best practices in handling the COVID-19 pandemic; recognises Taiwan’s role in ensuring the EU’s safe and diverse pharmaceutical and health- related industrial supply chains in the post-COVID era, which is in line with the EU’s Open Strategic Autonomy.
Amendment 18 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B B. whereas a global connectivity strategy should serve the goals of the EU’s key policies such as the European Green Deal, the Digital Transformation and the
Amendment 180 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward; welcomes also the EU- Korean exploratory exchanges on a connectivity partnership, and hopes it will make good headway in 2021; advocates the establishment of an EU-ASEAN connectivity partnership aiming at interconnecting with ASEAN’s already existing Connectivity Master Plan and project pipeline; encourages the EU to make use of the network of Taiwan’s New Southbound policy and to explore the possibility of establishing an EU-Taiwan connectivity partnership, which would be conducive to boosting cooperation in enhancing people-to-people contact and narrowing digital gap in the Southeast Asia region.
Amendment 181 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward; welcomes also the EU- Korean exploratory exchanges on a connectivity partnership, and hopes it will make good headway in 2021; advocates the establishment of an EU-ASEAN connectivity partnership aiming at interconnecting with ASEAN’s already existing Connectivity Master Plan and project pipeline; notes that the foreseen comprehensive air transport agreement (CATA) between the EU and ASEAN will be the first block-to-block agreement in the aviation sector;
Amendment 182 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 21. Strongly welcomes ongoing negotiations for building a connectivity partnership with India; hopes that the rotating EU Council presidencies, as well as the subsequent G20 presidencies, of Italy and India will use their leverage to move forward; welcomes also the EU- Korean exploratory exchanges on a connectivity partnership, and hopes it will make good headway in 2021; advocates the establishment of an EU-ASEAN
Amendment 183 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 a (new) 21 a. Welcomes also the EU-Korean exploratory exchanges on a connectivity partnership, and hopes it will make good headway in 2021; advocates the establishment of an EUASEAN connectivity partnership aiming at interconnecting with ASEAN’s already existing Connectivity Master Plan and project pipeline;
Amendment 184 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 a (new) 21 a. notices that Taiwan has the potential to become a major partner for the EU in the ICT, biotech, health and green energy sectors; urges the EU to swiftly start investment negotiations with Taiwan, and invites the Commission to open a scoping exercise and impact assessment as soon as possible;
Amendment 185 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 a (new) 21 a. Asks the European Commission to explore local connectivity partnerships with other countries of the region and beyond, including the Central Asia countries; stresses that such partnerships can help to bring positive tangible results for the participating countries;
Amendment 186 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 21 a (new) 21 a. Believes that, in order to improve trade and connectivity, the UE should keep pursuing deep and comprehensive FTAs with services, investment, and trade facilitation provisions and legally-binding rules on climate, labour and human rights;
Amendment 187 #
22.
Amendment 188 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 22 22.
Amendment 189 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 22 22. Welcomes the general
Amendment 19 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B a (new) B a. whereas a sustainable connectivity strategy should serve the goals of meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, particularly, SDG 7, ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, SDG9, to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation and SDG17, to strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development;
Amendment 190 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 22 a (new) 22 a. Endorses the commitments to strengthen the partnership between the European Union and Latin America and the Caribbean, as defined in the 2019 Joint Communication, including those related to the digital economy and connectivity, and stresses the importance of reinforcing the partnership with the LAC region, which fully shares European fundamental values and interests.
Amendment 191 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 22 a (new) 22a. Calls on the Commission to review the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and China’s role therein;
Amendment 192 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23.
Amendment 193 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23.
Amendment 194 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. I
Amendment 195 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in specific cases where this does not compromise core EU principles; notes however that China is a systemic rival of the Union and that the Belt and Road initiative stands at the core of the assertive foreign policy of China
Amendment 196 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in specific cases where this does not compromise core EU principles , with these projects to be subject of scrutiny by the Commission in order to assure their compliance with EU standards, interests, and principles;;
Amendment 197 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in specific cases where this does not compromise core EU principles; In this context, a focus should be placed on improving the Eurasian transport infrastructure, especially for multimodal and sustainable transport.
Amendment 198 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in specific cases where this does not compromise core EU principles; stresses that such partnership should be based on the sustainable fiscal, economical, social and environmental standards;
Amendment 199 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative in specific cases where this does not compromise core EU principles, the integrity of the common market and the political cohesion of our union;
Amendment 2 #
Motion for a resolution Citation 8 a (new) - having regard to the Joint Communication of 27 April 2016 on ´An integrated European Union policy for the Arctic´,
Amendment 20 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B a (new) B a. whereas a global connectivity strategy should lead to the achievement of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals;
Amendment 200 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 23. Is also willing to consider partnership with
Amendment 201 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 a (new) 23 a. Reminds that both the Russian Federation and Turkey are also Asian countries and have interests in becoming stakeholders in any developments arising on that continent; thus, they might become competitors to EU interests, as is the case in regard to numerous European affairs; stresses the importance of developing dialogues with the countries of Central Asia and further building connectivity there, especially with countries (such as Uzbekistan) that are open to comprehensive partnerships with the EU;
Amendment 202 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 24 24. Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to develop strong monitoring capabilities in other countries’ and regions’ connectivity strategies, including over the financial resources actually deployed; the effects on financial stability, sustainable development, up-holding of human rights, rule of law as well as good governance and the principles of multilateralism; emphasizes the potential of Team Europe in finding synergies in the EU and Member States’ connectivity efforts; advocates to work with partnering countries in monitoring long-term effects on structural policies, industrial and economic upgrading and poverty alleviation;
Amendment 203 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 Amendment 204 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 25. Emphasises strongly that the Global EU Connectivity Strategy must pay particular attention to connectivity with the neighbouring continent of Africa, including with the aim of preventing its place being taken by other global players; expects this effort to integrate the EU’s experience with policies promoting connectivity implemented in Africa through development cooperation; calls for this goal to be discussed at a high level with the African Union, and for it to result in an
Amendment 205 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 25. Emphasises strongly that the Global EU Connectivity Strategy must pay particular attention to connectivity with the European Neighbourhood and neighbouring continent of Africa; expects this effort to integrate the EU’s experience with policies promoting connectivity implemented in Africa through development cooperation; calls for this goal to be discussed at a high level with the African Union, and for it to result in an EU-Africa connectivity partnership by the end of 2021;
Amendment 206 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 a (new) 25 a. Commends the Commission and the HR/VP of their intent to put forward an Arctic strategy during the course of 2021; expresses its concern over the impact of climate change on this fragile region; also takes note of the potential opening of a new sea route to Asia, which could also be used for digital links such as fibre-optic cables; expects sustainable connectivity to be at the heart of these efforts;
Amendment 207 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 23 a (new) 23 a. stresses that the EU needs to be ready for new shipping routes due to the melting ice in the Arctic, such as the Arctic Silk Road initiative by China, and considers it imperative for the infrastructure investments in the European part to be financed by Europe itself.;
Amendment 208 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 a (new) 25 a. Believes that an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable connectivity is a powerful instrument for addressing global issues and a recognised pathway to narrow the development gaps among the regions;
Amendment 209 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 a (new) 25 a. expects the Commission to press for the improvement of sustainable connectivity between Central Europe and the Western Balkans, as well as with the Mediterranean ports.
Amendment 21 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B a (new) B a. whereas regional and global security frameworks are pre-requisites in creating a safe environment for the good functioning of relations between states and are essential in counteracting destabilising factors, it should build on Europe’s strength in trade policy and enhance its security and defence initiatives in order to address urgent challenges such as global health, among others;
Amendment 210 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 b (new) 25 b. Notes the success of the first ‘Europa Connectivity Forum’ in 2019; regrets the delay, due to Covid-19, of the Forum planned for 2020; looks forward to the next Forum, to be organised in 2021, pandemic permitting; is of the opinion that next Fora should be used to involve all Eurasian connectivity partners including Russia and China in multilateral discussions about their respective visions for the future economic, political and security order in Eurasia;
Amendment 211 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 25 b (new) 25 b. Stresses that connectivity also needs to rely on clear procurement rules that benefit local businesses and communities;
Amendment 212 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 26 26. Expects the Commission to present a new communication approach with a clear narrative in order to create adequate visibility for EU connectivity policies and their results; strongly calls for a re- branding of the EU’s connectivity strategy in non-bureaucratic language and terms that give expression to the specific values- based European approach to connectivity and a clear roadmap in order to achieve and implement the Strategy;
Amendment 213 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 26 26. Expects the Commission to present a new communication approach with a clear narrative in order to create adequate visibility and sufficient accountability for EU connectivity policies and their results;
Amendment 22 #
B a. whereas the implementation of the EU’s connectivity strategy requires dedicated public financial resources in the MFF 2021-2027, as well as renewed efforts to facilitate private sector engagement as the 2018 Joint Communication already explicitly states;
Amendment 23 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B b (new) B b. whereas according to the Asian Development Bank, for the development of infrastructure and connectivity across Asia, investments of 1.7 trillion USD per year will be required until 2030, if the region is to maintain its growth momentum;
Amendment 24 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B a (new) Amendment 25 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D a (new) D a. Whereas better connection of the EU with key regions, such as Asia, represents more commercial opportunities for the European economy, its companies, notably SMEs and hence also more prosperity for the European citizens;
Amendment 26 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B a (new) B a. whereas the EU’s free trade agreements with Japan and South Korea will induce more trade between Asia and Europe and require improvements to transport infrastructure;
Amendment 27 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B b (new) B b. whereas the global connectivity strategy has the potential to bring added value in the implementation and promotion of the EU global agenda including the Team Europe approach and the EU’s regional agendas such as the work on a European Indo-Pacific Strategy through synergies among EU’s key policies and thus elevate the EU’s role as global actor;
Amendment 28 #
Motion for a resolution Recital B b (new) B b. ASEM connectivity should be result-oriented, and in support of the following key principles: level-playing field, free and open trade, market principles, multi-dimensionality, inclusiveness, fairness, openness, transparency, financial viability, cost- effectiveness and mutual benefits.
Amendment 29 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian partners
Amendment 3 #
Motion for a resolution Citation 13 a (new) - having regard to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2015) and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda for Financing of Development (2015),
Amendment 30 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian partners should be established; whereas Africa and Latin America should be designated
Amendment 31 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership and the European Union, Latin America and the Caribbean: joint communication of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian partners should be established; whereas Africa should be designated a connectivity priority region as much as Asia;
Amendment 32 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian
Amendment 33 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian partners should be established; whereas Africa and the Neighbourhood should be designated
Amendment 34 #
Motion for a resolution Recital C C. whereas the EU-Japan connectivity partnership of 2019 gave additional relevance to this strategy; whereas partnerships with other Asian partners should be established; whereas Africa and Latin America should be designated a connectivity priority region as much as Asia;
Amendment 35 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D D. whereas despite numerous calls from Members of the European Parliament a global connectivity strategy
Amendment 36 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D a (new) D a. whereas experience shows that unsustainable projects lead to high-level of indebtedness, wasted resources, and undermine benefits for local communities of infrastructure investments, increased pollution and harm to the environment;
Amendment 37 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D b (new) D b. Whereas connectivity networks, such as the European Trans-European Transport Networks (TEN-T), can be seen as role models and are therefore being extended to the neighbouring countries of the EU;
Amendment 38 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D c (new) D c. Whereas the European Union’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans region is to be viewed as a key element of the EU-Asia connectivity strategy, the Western Balkans’ region, given its geographical position, plays an important role in the EU's connectivity towards Asia; welcomes, therefore, the ongoing extension of the EU’s Trans- European Transport Network (TEN-T) in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership countries; calls on the Commission to consider an appointment of special TEN-T coordinator for the Enlargement and Eastern Partnership countries; underlines that during the ongoing review process of TEN-T policy the Commission should pay due attention to its external dimension, including the link with a comprehensive transport initiative to find synergies between the extended TEN-T and strategic networks in Asia;
Amendment 39 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D b (new) D b. whereas Europe needs to invest more in infrastructure such as a modern European high-speed train network which could replace some air-transport routes within Europe;
Amendment 4 #
Motion for a resolution Citation 13 b (new) - having regard to the G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment (2019) and the Roadmap to Infrastructure as an Asset Class (2018),
Amendment 40 #
Motion for a resolution Recital D c (new) D c. whereas the COVID-19 crisis has shown that transport continuity with Asia has been essential to guarantee the supply chain for all types of goods during the pandemic;
Amendment 41 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out with pride that connectivity policies have been implemented successfully within the EU and that connectivity actions have increasingly been included in many of the EU’s external relations; encourages the Commission and EEAS to create a Global EU Connectivity Strategy (‘the Strategy’) as an extension of the current EU-Asia connectivity strategy in order to align our connectivity philosophy and connectivity policies with a consistent focus on strategic investment in infrastructure aimed at providing mutual benefit for the EU and its partners and with the goal of strengthening the EU’s role as a true and indispensable geopolitical and geo- economic actor, as well as cross-cultural enabler;
Amendment 42 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights the fundamental role that connectivity plays in the geopolitical relations of the EU and its Member States and underlines that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out with pride that connectivity policies have been implemented successfully in many of the
Amendment 43 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out with pride that connectivity policies have been implemented successfully in many of the EU’s external relations; encourages the Commission and EEAS to create a Global EU Connectivity Strategy (‘the Strategy’) as an extension of the current EU-Asia connectivity strategy in order to align our connectivity philosophy and connectivity policies with the goal of strengthening the EU’s role as a true geopolitical and geo- economic actor; makes clear, however, that in the area of connectivity Member States' rights must be safeguarded, in particular when their security, sovereignty or vital interests are at stake;
Amendment 44 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out with pride that connectivity policies have been implemented successfully in many of the EU’s external relations; encourages the Commission and EEAS to create a Global EU Connectivity Strategy (‘the Strategy’) as an extension of the current EU-Asia connectivity strategy in order to align our connectivity philosophy and connectivity policies with the goal of strengthening the EU’s role as a true geopolitical and geo- economic actor and of strengthening partnerships with democracies around the globe who share our fundamental values;
Amendment 45 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out with pride that connectivity policies have been implemented successfully in many of the EU’s external relations; encourages the Commission and EEAS to create a Global
Amendment 46 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out
Amendment 47 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 1. Highlights that connectivity as a fundamental orientation of the European Union is deeply ingrained in the EU’s approach to domestic and international challenges; points out
Amendment 48 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 a (new) 1 a. Highlights that connectivity should serve as a key priority in the European Union’s work as a global actor, confirming Europe’s ambition to work together with like-minded partners in promoting connectivity that is sustainable across the board – fiscally, economically, socially and environmentally;
Amendment 49 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 a (new) 1 a. Highlights that the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy sets out the conditions for Europe to cooperate with other countries, including China, bilaterally and in multilateral fora, and to find synergies, not least in the EU’s immediate neighbourhood;
Amendment 5 #
Motion for a resolution Citation 14 a (new) - having regard to the Chair’s statement and the conclusions of the 3rd ASEM Foreign ministers meeting, on 20- 21 November 2017,
Amendment 50 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 a (new) 1 a. Insists that global challenges will be aggravated if the world would develop into adversarial camps or utter fragmentation; promotes therefore connectivity as a principle that seeks cooperation wherever necessary and possible;
Amendment 51 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 b (new) 1 b. Notes with concern the lack of recognition of the broad diversity and complexity of the relation between the EU and Asia within the Communication of the Strategy; regrets that key economic and geopolitical realities have not been taken into account;
Amendment 52 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 b (new) 1 b. Notes that Asia is the biggest trade partner of the EU thus the EU-Asia connectivity is of economic as well as geopolitical importance;
Amendment 53 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 c (new) 1 c. Regrets that no reference to the major trade or economic partnership agreements between the EU and leading Asian countries (especially the EU-Japan agreement) are reflected in the Strategy; nor the best ways to work with Asian countries to bolster international organisations, notably the WTO;
Amendment 54 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 1 d (new) 1 d. Stresses that connectivity between Asia and the EU is a complex and often intangible phenomenon, process and initiative; in this sense, calls on the Commission to incorporate into the strategy the design of mechanisms to prevent the fiscal crimes that may occur with increased connectivity and due to the complexity of the digital and investment network;
Amendment 55 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 2 2. Expects the Strategy to contribute to implementing the EU’s main framework policies of building a strong and fair Union, investing in peaceful international relations, achieving
Amendment 56 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 2 2. Expects the Strategy to contribute to implementing the EU’s main framework policies of building a strong and fair Union, investing in peaceful international relations, achieving economic progress on the basis of the European Green Deal and the Digital Transformation, and promoting global justice; considers that fostering globalization with sustainable characteristics necessitates partnering with third countries in implementing the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals as core of the Strategy;
Amendment 57 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 2 2. Expects the Strategy to contribute to implementing the EU’s main framework policies of building a strong and fair Union, investing in peaceful and respectful international relations, achieving economic progress on the basis of the European Green Deal and the Digital Transformation, and promoting
Amendment 58 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 2 2. Expects the Strategy to contribute to implementing the EU’s main framework policies of building a strong and fair Union, investing in peaceful international relations, achieving economic progress on the basis of ambitious trade agreements, the European Green Deal and the Digital Transformation, and promoting global justice;
Amendment 59 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 2 2. Expects the Strategy to contribute to implementing the EU’s main framework policies of building a strong and fair Union, investing in peaceful international relations, achieving economic progress on the basis of the
Amendment 6 #
Motion for a resolution Recital A A. whereas an expanded global connectivity strategy for the EU needs effective governance and broad involvement of Member States as well as
Amendment 60 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests
Amendment 61 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests; insists that the values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, solidarity, sustainability, inclusiveness, transparency, reciprocity and the adherence to multilateralism must guide the Strategy also reinforcing its international role as a norm-setter; understands that adequate human and financial resources must be allocated for its implementation;
Amendment 62 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests; insists that the values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, non-discrimination, solidarity, sustainability, inclusiveness, social-justice, transparency, reciprocity and the adherence to multilateralism must guide the Strategy;
Amendment 63 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests; insists that the values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, solidarity, sustainability, inclusiveness, transparency, level playing field, reciprocity and the adherence to multilateralism must guide the Strategy;
Amendment 64 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests; insists that the values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, solidarity, social justice, sustainability, inclusiveness, transparency, reciprocity and the adherence to multilateralism must guide the Strategy;
Amendment 65 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 3. Is of the view that the Strategy must comprehensively address a broad spectrum of political, economic, cultural, sustainability and security dimensions based on the EU’s fundamental values and its shared interests; insists that the values of freedom, human rights, rule of law, democracy, solidarity, sustainability, inclusiveness, transparency, reciprocity and the adherence to rules-based multilateralism must guide the Strategy;
Amendment 66 #
3 a. Stresses that the Strategy must also aim to promote institutional connectivity through multiple events in the fields of sustainable development, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), human rights and people-to-people connectivity; with this regard, highlights that connectivity must be economically, environmentally and socially sustainable, comprehensive across sectors and based on international rules and an open and transparent environment;
Amendment 67 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 3 b (new) 3 b. Underlines that the definition of connectivity should encompass the economic pillar, the social pillar and the security pillar, and should include in it both hard connectivity (such as infrastructure) as well as soft connectivity(people-to-people and digital connectivity) and all links, such as air, land, cyber, educational and cultural connections; highlights that his connectivity should be in line with international standards and based on full transparency and should work hand-in- hand with the already existing regional form of cooperation in order to avoid duplication and parallel structures; insists that the connectivity strategy must address the challenge of depopulation in the rural world and that it must serve to structure and connect territories rather than widen the gap between urban and rural areas;
Amendment 68 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 4 Amendment 69 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 4 4.
Amendment 7 #
Motion for a resolution Recital A a (new) A a. whereas in an increasingly connected and global world, the EU needs to implement and demonstrate connectivity strategies in order to advance its interests, values and positions and strengthen cooperation with its partners on the future of key global networks, such as on transportation, digital, energy and in particular human networks;
Amendment 70 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 4 4. Invites economic and societal stakeholders at the EU level and in the Member States to participate in the development
Amendment 71 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 4 4. Invites economic and societal stakeholders and relevant experts in the field at the EU level and in the Member States to participate in the development of the Strategy;
Amendment 72 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 4 a (new) Amendment 73 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments are necessary; the strategy needs to be enshrined in the future NDICI instrument enabling the EU to meet efficiently its objectives; the investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience and decarbonisation of the economy, and respect high environmental and biodiversity standards;
Amendment 74 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, transparency, market efficiency, a level playing field including fair access to procurement markets and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support
Amendment 75 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience and decarbonisation of the economy, and respect high environmental and biodiversity standards; stresses that they need to adhere to high standards of social and labour rights, transparency, human rights, due diligence, and good governance, and give a voice to the people affected by the projects; calls for the Strategy to be enshrined in the future NDICI instrument enabling the EU to meet efficiently the objectives of the Strategy;
Amendment 76 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment or compromises in the detriment of human rights and dignity; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience and decarbonisation of the economy, and respect high environmental and biodiversity standards; stresses that they need to adhere to high standards of social and labour rights, transparency, human rights, due diligence, and good governance, and give a voice to the people affected by the projects;
Amendment 77 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience
Amendment 78 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience and decarbonisation of the economy, and respect high environmental and biodiversity standards; stresses that they need to adhere to
Amendment 79 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 5. Recalls that, in order to generate sustainable growth and jobs, connectivity investments need to respect the public good, market efficiency and fiscal viability, while avoiding debt entrapment; highlights that such investments need to support economic resilience and decarbonisation of
Amendment 8 #
Motion for a resolution Recital A a (new) A a. whereas the European Union and Asia account for 70% of the global population and 60% of the world’s GDP with large parts of the potential between both regions untapped due to lacking physical and digital infrastructure;
Amendment 80 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 a (new) 5 a. Invites all European countries to join the EU‘s connectivity strategy including EFTA countries, the Western Balkans, and the EU’s Neighbourhood, also to functionally integrate different developing regions ; encourages the UK to join forces with the EU in strategic international connectivity promotion in particular in light of the House of Commons’ recent report on the future of the UK’s international policy; is of the opinion that projects with ownership by several European countries should be prioritised;
Amendment 81 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 5 a (new) 5 a. Highlights the need to establish, within the Strategy, high profiled priority projects and flagship initiatives, that demonstrate very strong European added value and represent strategic public interest, and as such should be granted special position within the market and financial regulatory framework in order to exert their role successfully as important facilitators of European strategic interests;
Amendment 82 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair
Amendment 83 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair partnership with respective
Amendment 84 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair partnership with respective countries; believes the Strategy must create shared benefits, prevent one-sided dependencies or debt traps, empower self- determination, and be conducted with mutual respect; recalls the European Parliament concerns about the Chinese "16+1 Initiative" creating large debts and few jobs in Europe;
Amendment 85 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair partnership with respective countries; believes the Strategy must create shared benefits, prevent one-sided
Amendment 86 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair partnership with respective countries and regions; believes the Strategy must create shared benefits, prevent one-sided dependencies or debt traps, empower self-
Amendment 87 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 6. Gives greatest emphasis to the need for a fair partnership with respective countries; believes the Strategy must create shared benefits, prevent one-sided dependencies or debt traps
Amendment 88 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 a (new) 6 a. Highlights the crucial importance of the Western Balkans as a priority for the Strategy; believes that the Strategy can create positive synergies with other political and economic processes in the region, emphasising in particular regional integration; advocates harmonising existing infrastructure plans for the Western Balkan countries such as the EU Connectivity Agenda for the Western Balkans with the Strategy; welcomes the momentum for connectivity investment in the region in the context of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans; also highlights the importance of the Eastern Partnership and the focus on connectivity within the Joint Communication from March 2020;
Amendment 89 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 a (new) 6 a. Calls on the European Commission to extent its economic foreign policy tools to cover Asia, in order to support European businesses, some of which are already in place in Africa under the InvestEU instrument; highlights that this support should be equally carried out respecting workers' rights in procurement procedures also in third countries receiving foreign investments;
Amendment 9 #
Motion for a resolution Recital A a (new) A a. whereas the EU has been slow to react, particularly in formulating a response to connectivity challenges;
Amendment 90 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 6 a (new) 6 a. Expresses its belief that through the Strategy the EU can live up to its role as a global leader, help other states maintain their sovereignty by offering an additional source of investment, promote a global level of economic playing-field, promote reciprocity as a guiding principle, prevent exclusive spheres of influence, and promote cooperation with global players;
Amendment 91 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 7 7. Stresses that the Strategy must be coordinated and monitored with the pursuit of internal connectivity within the EU as for instance Trans-European Networks or the Three Seas Initiative, strengthening shared values, standards and interests and providing shared ownership of the Strategy to EU institutions and Member States; is of the view that without active Member States‘ ownership the connectivity strategy will be a car without wheels;
Amendment 92 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 7 7. Stresses that the Strategy must be coordinated with the pursuit of internal connectivity within the EU as well as between the EU and prospective members of the Union;
Amendment 93 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 7 a (new) 7 a. Stresses the necessity of creating a collaborative platform of multilateral nature, where connectivity plans can converge around common rules and standards;
Amendment 94 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 8 8. Underlines the multidimensional nature of the Strategy, which requires
Amendment 95 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 8 8. Underlines the multidimensional nature of the Strategy, which requires effective coordination of already existing strategies, policies and projects for international connectivity and interoperability;
Amendment 96 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 9 9.
Amendment 97 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 9 9. Proposes that the implementation of the Strategy be discussed regularly by the Commissioners’ Group for a Stronger Europe acting as Connectivity Coordination Body, co-
Amendment 98 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 9 a (new) 9 a. Calls for an integrated approach by the different Directorate-Generals (DGs) of the Commission in order to maximise the synergies within the Commission and to strengthen efficiency;
Amendment 99 #
Motion for a resolution Paragraph 10 10.
source: 661.782
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