3rd Franco-Italian Cross-Border Cooperation Committee: transport at the forefront of discussions
As a key forum for Franco-Italian dialogue at cross-border level, the Committee contributes to the implementation of the Quirinal Treaty by fostering exchanges between the various levels of stakeholders involved. A morning of technical discussions was followed by a political session during which the regions were able to set out their priorities and expectations.
Transport issues at the heart of the discussions
This edition focused on transport issues, a key challenge for the Franco-Italian border regions. On this occasion, the MOT presented an overview of cross-border road links, existing services and projects currently under development, whilst highlighting the legal and administrative obstacles that continue to hinder their implementation.*
Railway matters also featured prominently in the discussions, particularly regarding the Lyon–Turin project and the TELT study (more information here), as well as the recent ratification of the railway agreement concerning the operation of the Cuneo–Breil–Ventimiglia line. Issues relating to Alpine mountain passes and motorway infrastructure of strategic importance for European transport flows were also highlighted. Against this general backdrop, the Alcotraité 2 Transports project emerged as a particularly significant initiative for strengthening transport cooperation at this border (more information on Alcotraité 2).
Other key topics
Other topics were also discussed, including youth and bilingualism – which is particularly relevant in the Aosta Valley context – as well as water management and governance issues. The discussions also highlighted the specific characteristics of maritime regions, in particular the challenges relating to transport and the regulations concerning the decarbonisation of ferry services between Corsica and Sardinia.
Under the terms of the Quirinal Treaty, this Border Cooperation Committee thus serves as an essential tool for coordination and dialogue, working towards a shared vision for the future of the French and Italian border regions.
[In French only] *Read the MOT’s paper on cross-border road links and view the presentation given at the Franco-Italian Cross-Border Cooperation Committee meeting, both of which are available to MOT members (log in to the Members’ Area).
