Session VI: High-level Panel Discussion on Connectivity

Connectivity is about networks and the flow of people, goods, services and capital that pass through them. This means transport links, as well as digital and energy networks. To build connectivity with EaP countries, the EU has proposed the Indicative Investment Action Plan identifying several priority projects, extending the core TEN-T to the Eastern Partnership region. The projects will require an estimated investment of almost 13 billion EUR for construction and rehabilitation of new and existing roads, rail, ports, airports, logistical centres and border crossing points. Moreover, the EU has launched EU4Digital initiative to eliminate existing obstacles and barriers for pan-European online services for citizens, public administrations and businesses.

The panel will discuss how enhanced connectivity both within the EaP and between the EaP and EU will generate economic growth, increase interdependency, and promote long-term stability and prosperity in the region. The key enabling factors for such transformation will be also addressed.