Think Railways

The European Commission has adopted the 2014‑2020 Large Infrastructure Operational Programme (LIOP) for Romania, which is an important investment package worth nearly €9.5 billion from the EU Regional Funds to be invested in transport, environment and energy projects. This is almost half of the €23 billion allocated to Romania under EU Cohesion Policy. With national co-financing included, it will be worth more than € 11.8 billion to stimulate growth and create jobs in the country.

Welcoming the adoption, European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Creţu said: "This investment package, which is the largest operational programme for Romania, will contribute to the development of a sustainable and green transport system as well as preserve the environment and increase energy efficiency within the country. This will strengthen the country's economic competitiveness and ensure better accessibility to key priority European transport corridors. Better transport connections by road and rail will also create new business opportunities, lower the costs of transporting goods and improve travel times for all. Businesses and citizens will clearly reap the benefits of the projects under the programme. I call on the authorities to start implementing the key infrastructure and resources projects beneficial to Romania's development.”

The programme will put in practice the national Master Plan on Transport, the strategy of the Romanian national transport sector for the years ahead. As the transport sector represents a key area for growth and competitiveness, the Plan assesses specific demands, identifies missing links and bottlenecks and sets clear and realistic milestones for future projects. It aims at improving existing infrastructure, developing sustainable and environmental-friendly urban transport modes and completing the TEN-T core network in the country.

Another strong focus of the programme lies on actions to increase energy efficiency, protect natural resources and promote risk prevention in the area of climate change. The programme will also support Romania’s ability to comply with environmental obligations, in particular in the water sector, which will further improve the quality of life of the citizens.