The Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, addressed the challenges facing global shipping, the need for international cooperation and the conditions for a realistic energy transition at the North Bund Forum in Shanghai, where he was one of the keynote speakers.
“We need a feasible and sustainable energy transition in shipping, supported by technological innovation, adequate infrastructure and investment,” Vassilis Kikilias said.
Speaking about the international role of Greek shipping, he said: “For a country such as Greece, which controls nearly 20% of the global merchant fleet, maritime transport is not merely an economic activity but a strategic pillar of international prosperity, connectivity and economic security.
In an environment of growing uncertainty, Greek shipping is maintaining its leading role and once again demonstrating its resilience.
The major challenges facing global shipping today can be addressed only through international cooperation, solidarity and respect for international rules.
We strongly support the role of the IMO in establishing a global framework of rules”, Mr Kikilias said, stressing, however, that “the future of shipping will be determined not only by technology and rules, but by the choices we make together.
The pace of our decisions must be in keeping with what society can bear”.
Mr Kikilias concluded: “Let us therefore work together towards a more resilient, sustainable and safe global shipping industry.
Greece and our government are ready to honour their commitments in full”.
The conference also featured as keynote speakers France’s Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot, Cyprus’s Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanoli, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and the head of Liberia’s Maritime Administration Len Eugene Nagbe. Shanghai Communist Party Committee Secretary Chen Jining and Shanghai Mayor Zhou Zhongming were also in attendance.