In an era of geopolitical realignments, uncertainty, and multiple crises, shipping remains a force of stability, continuity, and cohesion. It keeps the planet connected, economies functioning, and societies supplied.
Ms. Melina Travlos, President of the Union of Greek Shipowners stated in a recent announcement about the upcoming Posidonia week:
“Posidonia brings together in Greece — the homeland of the world’s strongest shipping industry — the international maritime community, highlighting the strategic importance of a sector that not only transports goods and energy, but also safeguards the very functioning of the modern world.
In today’s international environment, shipping operates under conditions of increasing geopolitical tension. Threats to freedom of navigation and attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers have now become a new reality, testing maritime routes, supply chains, energy security, and the balance of the global economy.
The safe and uninterrupted operation of maritime transport is a prerequisite for the prosperity of humanity. Shipping carries food, medicines, energy, raw materials, and essential goods on a scale and with an efficiency that no other transport system can replace.
For this reason, maritime security is a global public good and a collective responsibility. The protection of human life at sea, commercial vessels, and freedom of navigation must remain a non-negotiable duty of the international community.
Within this demanding environment, Greek shipping — representing nearly 20% of global carrying capacity and more than 60% of the fleet controlled by the European Union — continues to demonstrate its strength, reliability, and adaptability over time.
This leadership is not reflected only in numbers. It is reflected in the consistently responsible and institutional stance of the Union of Greek Shipowners on all critical issues concerning the sector and international maritime policy.
It is reflected in our foresight, investments, and our ability to respond with consistency, composure, and determination to constantly evolving international conditions.
At the same time, Greek shipping stands at the forefront of the sector’s green transition, operating one of the youngest fleets globally and the world’s largest fleet capable of using alternative fuels.
Our investments in newbuild vessels, innovative technologies, digitalization, and emissions-reduction solutions are continuous and substantial.
However, the transition toward decarbonization requires realism, technological maturity, and global alignment. It cannot jeopardize the safety of crews and ships, nor the sustainability of shipping and global supply chains.
A truly sustainable transition must be safe, practically feasible, fair to all stakeholders, and globally functional.
The recent discussions at the IMO, within the framework of MEPC 84, offer the international community a second opportunity to restore consensus and work toward a realistic, appropriate, and effective global framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships.
The ultimate success of this effort depends on the availability of safe, accessible, economically viable, and sufficient alternative fuels on a global scale.
Shipping has consistently proven that it knows how to navigate responsibly even through the roughest seas. And it will continue to do so.
Because shipping is a force of vital continuity for the world. In times of crisis, it keeps the channels of cooperation open. In times of uncertainty, it provides stability. In times of transition, it ensures that progress can continue.”
She concluded by highlighting that “in this great global mission, Greek shipping remains on the front line. With the seamanship, resilience, and unity that define it, it will continue to connect the world with consistency, vision, and a sense of responsibility toward future generations.”
Τranslated by Capital Link
