The European Union is intensifying its efforts to fortify the integrity of its communications infrastructure in response to rising concerns about foreign interference.

The Polish Council Presidency's latest draft conclusions emphasize the EU's initiative to establish 'reliable and resilient connectivity,' a strategy currently under review.

This comes in light of recent events that have raised alarms regarding the safety and reliability of the continent's communication systems.

A notable backdrop includes the controversy surrounding Huawei's lobbying activities, a series of mysterious severed undersea cables in the Baltic Sea, and uncertainties related to Elon Musk's provision of satellite internet access to Ukraine.

These incidents have underscored the urgency for member states and EU institutions to enhance network security and integrity.

The draft document seeks to highlight the necessity of adopting a new regulatory framework aimed at phasing out high-risk vendors from telecommunications networks and information infrastructures.

This includes a comprehensive approach to both mobile and fixed telecommunications networks, alongside equipment suppliers in the automotive sector.

However, there is uncertainty regarding the willingness of all member states to fully endorse the Polish initiative, given the slow implementation of the existing voluntary 5G toolbox due to high costs.

In parallel developments, EU countries are striving to sustain their satellite capabilities.

Currently, Europe's satellite fleet significantly lags behind competitors like Musk's Starlink, which has deployed approximately 7,000 satellites, contrasted with Eutelsat's fewer than 700.

Future requirements for EU satellite constellations will be guided by recommendations from the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG), an advisory body composed of national representatives.

This group is tasked with formulating policies concerning direct-to-device satellite technology, allowing users to connect directly to satellites without the intermediary of terrestrial terminals.

The draft also introduces considerations regarding cable vessels, which play a crucial role in repairing subsea telecommunications cables.

Enhancements in this area are deemed essential, as reliance on external operators raises concerns about potential foreign manipulation.

Although the draft does not support the European Commission's suggestion to establish an 'EU Cable Vessels Reserve'—which would involve significant financial commitments—it does call for utilizing existing capacity more effectively.

The upcoming Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Ministry Council meeting slated for June 6 in Luxembourg is expected to be a critical juncture for adopting the conclusions and furthering the EU's connectivity agenda.