Melina Travlou, president of the Union of Greek Shipowners, emphasized the importance of involving the shipping industry in decision-making processes during her address at the Maritime Summit in Athens, titled “Shaping the Future of Shipping.”
She highlighted that shipping serves as a crucial mediator, effectively ensuring the security of global supply chains and the independence of countries regarding food and energy needs. Travlou stated:
“Our industry has repeatedly proven itself to be humanity’s savior during critical challenges, including COVID-19, wars, geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, and climate change. Shipping has consistently risen to the occasion.”
Despite this significant impact on everyday life, Travlou pointed out that “shipping remains largely overlooked and undervalued by both policymakers and the public. The essential role of our industry is often neglected, not due to a lack of appreciation but rather a lack of understanding. This perception needs to change—not for the sake of recognition, but to foster effective policymaking.”
