On 5 November 2025, the Steering Group of Priority Area 1a of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region met in Vienna. Hosted by the technical secretariat at viadonau, the 26th meeting brought together representatives from Danube countries and several partner organisations to exchange and reflect on current developments in inland navigation.

Updates from Danube Countries and Sector Organisations

Steering Group members from Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania, alongside representatives from sector organisations provided updates on national activities. Many countries reported challenging low-water conditions in 2025. Ongoing investments in port modernisation, digitalisation, and waterway maintenance were highlighted across the region.

Working Towards a Zero-Emission Danube Fleet

A key topic of the meeting was the development of actions towards a zero-emission Danube fleet, an initiative led by PA1a together with the Danube Commission. Building on two stakeholder workshops, the draft document outlines strategic measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and proposes concrete, economically viable steps reflecting the current realities of the Danube fleet. Steering Group Members had been invited to review the document prior to the meeting and will continue to provide input through an online survey.

Spotlight on the MultiRELOAD Project

The meeting also featured an update on MultiRELOAD, a Horizon Europe project exploring how innovations in inland ports and digital tools can support a more efficient and sustainable transport system.

Photo by Pro Danube.
You can download meeting materials for further consultation.