Sweden and Norway on-board for the Fehmarnbelt tunnel

Sep 29, 2019 | Infrastrukture

With the EU to finally confirm the level of financial support for the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link on July 10th, the Swedish and Norwegian Transport Ministers are united in their strong support for this massive infrastructure project. The agreement stems from a common desire to create closer ties between northern Europe and the Continent – which both Ministers believe is the basis for growth, business, improved transport and integration. The Swedish Transport Minister sees a clear need for the EU to support and prioritise the project.

In the lead up to the EU decision on financial contribution for European infrastructure projects, of which the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link, together with the Brenner Basis Tunnel, is one of the largest by far, the Norwegian and Swedish governments have been clear about their unconditional support for the project.

Norwegian Transport Minister Ketil Solvik-Olsen (FrP) commented to STRING:

“We’re extremely positive about a fixed link across Fehmarnbelt. It will be of real benefit to Norwegian businesses as it will make other European markets so much more accessible.

“The establishment of the tunnel will also mean a reduction in the distance between Germany and the Nordic countries of around 160 kilometres for both road and rail. We can expect a more efficient road and rail system as a result of the potential construction.”

EU support is key

Swedish Transport Minister Anna Johansson (S) has also given the project her wholehearted support.

“A fixed link across the Fehmarnbelt will strengthen Sweden’s ties with continental Europe. Roughly two thirds of all Swedish exports are destined for the EU market, with Germany being one of its largest trading partners,” Johansson told STRING.

“The Swedish government supports the transition to a more sustainable transport system, and we believe the railway connection under the Fehmarnbelt to be an important first step towards strengthening the competitiveness of the rail sector, especially when it comes to freight traffic.

“The Öresund region and northern Germany are important areas for growth, and the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link will increase the potential for commuting and tourism in the region.  I really do welcome the benefits that a fixed link will bring, and see a real need for the EU to support and prioritise this project.”

Share with

Latest Posts

GREATER4H Grant Agreement signed in the European Parliament

GREATER4H Grant Agreement signed in the European Parliament

Today, the Acting Director of CINEA Mrs. Paloma Aba Garrote and the GREATER4H Project Coordinator from Schleswig-Holstein Mr. Werner Schwarz, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Areas, European Affairs and Consumer Protection are formally signing the GREATER4H Grant...

read more
Join the GREATER4H kick-off event

Join the GREATER4H kick-off event

On March 27, 2023 STRING and Land Schleswig-Holstein are initiating the GREATER4H Hydrogen project by bringing together policy makers from the STRING megaregion as well as participants from the hydrogen industry and representatives of the European Institutions, DG MOVE, the European Commission and CINEA.

read more
STRING welcomes its newest member: The German city of Kiel

STRING welcomes its newest member: The German city of Kiel

We are happy to announce, that during the Political Forum meeting on the 9th of February 2023 at the Science Center in Kiel, the city has been officially approved as a STRING member. The focus on development and deployment of hydrogen technologies is just one of...

read more