Senior leaders from the global shipping sector, along with prominent government officials, gathered for the Shipping Summit titled “Shaping the Future of Shipping: Navigating Global Megatrends, Mitigating Risk, and the Role of Shipping in Economic Security and Prosperity,” held at the Athens Conservatory.
This event was co-hosted by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the Union of Greek Shipowners.
The Summit came at a pivotal moment for international shipping, addressing pressing challenges such as implementing agreements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vessels, the energy transition, alternative fuels, and technological advancements within the industry.
Kicking off the proceedings, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vasilis Kikilias, warmly welcomed international attendees, offering special recognition to Melina Travlou, president of the Union of Greek Shipowners, and Emmanuel Grimaldi, president of the ICS.
Kikilias highlighted the significance of collaboration between the public and private sectors for the successful evolution of shipping, underscoring Greece’s historical and contemporary influence in shaping the global maritime landscape. “When we discuss trade, seas, and ports, we are essentially discussing Greece,” he remarked, referring to both the nation’s ancient maritime tradition and the current strength of its fleet, which comprises 5,800 vessels and accounts for about 20% of the world’s fleet.
The Minister also addressed the competitiveness of European shipping, urging support from the EU, and emphasized that the transition to greener shipping must be accompanied by realistic measures and constructive dialogue to ensure the industry’s sustainability.
Kikilias reiterated the vital role of the global fleet during the pandemic, noting its essential contribution in transporting critical health supplies.
In conclusion, he urged all parties to keep the lines of communication open, stressing that shipping is not merely an economic sector but a fundamental pillar of global stability and prosperity.
Following the event, the Minister reiterated that “shipping, along with tourism, real estate, and services, is a cornerstone of our country’s GDP,” while reaffirming the need to uphold the competitiveness of the European fleet. He also called on the European Commission to align its policies with international standards and IMO regulations to preserve the relationship between the European framework and the shipping community.
“Europe must recognize that our fleet is its strongest asset—not only for the economy but also for bolstering its geopolitical stance,” he concluded.
