High-Level Dialogue paves the way for Connected and Automated Transport

On 18-19 June, the Flemish Ministry of Mobility and Public Works organised a high-level dialogue on connected and automated transport in Ghent, Belgium. Attended by transport authorities, mobility experts, and industry leaders from across the Union, the event led to the adoption of Joint Commitments and a Call for Action.

Within the context of the Belgian Presidency of the Council 2024, the Flemish Ministry of Mobility and Public Works convened a High-Level Dialogue on Connected and Automated Driving. Lasting from 18 to 19 June, the event brought together transport leaders from both the public and private sectors for two days of insightful discussions.

What was on the agenda?

Focused on connected and automated vehicle technologies, this high-level dialogue explored the potential of innovations to improve safety, optimise traffic flows, and enhance the environmental performance of Europe’s transport systems.

In particular, the event highlighted the need to couple industrial efforts with fine-tuned policies that consider the full ramifications of novel technologies for society. As the development and deployment of automated functionalities steadily progress, Member States (MS) and the European Commission (EC) will play an important role in ensuring that new mobility services respond to shared societal needs and help to improve the competitiveness of European industry.

Harking back to the 2016 Declaration of Amsterdam, which laid down the key principles for European cooperation in the development of connected and automated driving, the “Joint Commitments and Call for Action” adopted at the event pushed for a balanced but ambitious approach moving forward. As in 2016, the goal of cooperation on connected and automated transport remains the successful integration of new technologies in daily life and the full enjoyment of the benefits they offer for safe and sustainable mobility.

Find out more

Curious to know more about the content of the discussions? You can access the Belgian Presidency’s “Joint Commitments and Call for Action” document here.

On the website of the Flemish government, you can also find the full event programme, information regarding breakout sessions, event photos, and an “aftermovie” recapitulating the event.