EU transport ministers discussed a pandemic contingency plan for the freight transport sector – Minister Harakka set the objective of EU harmonised COVID-19 test result certificates

The German Presidency of the Council of the European Union arranged an informal video meeting of transport ministers on 8 October 2020. In the meeting, Finland was represented by Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka.

The ministers held a policy debate to discuss the requirements for a pandemic contingency plan for the European freight transport sector. A discussion paper prepared by the German Presidency served as the basis for discussion. Finland supports the EU's joint efforts to ensure the smooth flow of freight traffic in possible future pandemic situations or similar crises.

"It is important to ensure the functioning of the transport sector and the continuity of transport services in the event of a pandemic. We are in favour of joint EU measures. Member States should be actively consulted in the preparation of the contingency plan," said Minister Timo Harakka.

The preparation of the contingency plan is intended to be entrusted to the European Commission once the Council conclusions have been adopted.

The Ministers also discussed the functioning, safety and security of passenger transport services during a pandemic.

"It would be beneficial, if uniform certificates of a negative result from a coronavirus test were available at EU level. This would improve the safety of travel," Minister Harakka said.

At the meeting, the Commission also briefed the ministers on its proposal for the Single European Sky. Finland supports the objectives of the Single European Sky (SES) and considers it important to promote the SES2 + legislation.

Inquiries:

Mikael Nyberg, High-Level Representative for Transport and Communications Policy, tel. + 358 40 837 8794

Tiia Orjasniemi, EU Coordinator, tel. +358 50 441 5730