Leading UK transport organisations representing road, rail, maritime and aviation companies and organisations came together in Westminster on 10 November to discuss how transport can better engage with the EU and its member states, seizing new opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow.

Organised by the Brussels-based membership body UK Transport in Europe (UKTiE), and in collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT), this high-level gathering of senior transport leaders underscores the critical role UK transport will play in driving forward the reset agenda at a pivotal time. The discussion will seek to create and embed lasting economic benefits for the UK, Europe, and those who use and work in transport, ultimately to the benefit of UK plc, and its connectivity, social and decarbonisation ambitions.

Mark Watts, CEO of UKTiE, said: “Now, more than ever, UKTiE and its members are committed to be a UK ‘springboard’ for influence on the European and global transport agenda.
“As we embrace the reset in our relationship with European partners, we are ready to lead—supporting efforts to strengthen the UK’s travel, trade, transport, and investment ties with the EU.
“Our meeting today will see a range of topical discussions with industry leaders and policymakers, including on decarbonisation, digital transformation, border friction, the EU’s Entry & Exit System, and strategies to enhance UK-EU engagement in transport more widely.
“Leaders attending will work together to identify goals, exchange best practices, and map out action plans that will drive the reset forward and unlock new pathways for UK transport within Europe and beyond. It promises to be an insightful and impactful day!”

Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), the UK rail trade body which is hosting the event, emphasised the transformative potential of the reset: “This UK-EU reset has significant potential to make a real difference.
“It presents a unique opportunity for UK transport to lead the way in seeking to integrate travel between the UK and Europe, benefiting all transport modes, both at a sectoral trading level, and for UK and EU passengers and freight using the various transit systems.
“It will seek to find new ways to reduce barriers for goods and services, whilst fostering collaboration with the EU and its member states on innovation, digitalisation, and decarbonisation, and attracting vital investment. Together, we really can build resilient partnerships that drive sustainable economic growth and address shared challenges, shaping a future-focused UK-EU relationship.”