Within the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy, the further development of Europe's transport infrastructure network needs should be geared at the emergence of a resource efficient transport system that builds on innovation and addresses climate change and environmental challenges, as well as territorial cohesion. It should notably be marked by the combination and integration of transport modes as well as broad deployment of traffic management systems within and across the modes to optimise the use of infrastructure. Such a European infrastructure policy should be driven by actual and future transport service needs and support the emergence of innovative infrastructure development that contributes to and enables a clean and low-carbon transport system as well as advanced operational and governance concepts.

Appropriate transport connections to all neighbouring regions, at the Union's vast land and maritime border are vital for the integration of Europe's neighbours as well as Europe's external trade. Strong global competitiveness of the European economy, mobility of citizens and an increasing political weight of the Union require transport infrastructure that links Europe well with the rest of the world.