Shipping and seaborne energy trade will play a decisive role in global developments over the coming decades, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias said, highlighting the strategic importance of maritime infrastructure and energy transport.
Speaking at the Athens Defence Conference, organized by the Delphi Economic Forum in cooperation with the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy, Kikilias said Greece supports the shipping industry’s green transition but stressed that related policy decisions should be shaped with the participation of member states and the maritime sector rather than imposed without consultation.
He said shipping, seaborne energy transportation, shipyards, port infrastructure and marinas would be key drivers of trade and international relations over the next 25 years. “The faster we invest in these sectors, the sooner we will be able to play a leading role,” Kikilias said, adding that Greece should continue investing in industries that have traditionally served as pillars of economic growth and employment. Referring to the role of Greek ports, the minister said the competitiveness report prepared by former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi underscores the strategic importance of European shipping and ports. He argued that an integrated port network linking northern and southern Greece as well as the country’s islands could act as a catalyst for economic development, while the revival of Greece’s shipbuilding industry could transform it into one of the country’s major heavy industries.
Kikilias also highlighted the strategic importance of the Port of Alexandroupolis, describing it as a key hub for Europe and noting that the return of U.S. investment to Greece is now a reality. He said the port’s role could be further strengthened through new energy infrastructure projects, participation in the Vertical Corridor initiative and its development as an energy storage hub. Asked about fleet modernization and the financing of related infrastructure, Kikilias said a combination of public and private capital would be required, alongside the use of European funding programs and public-private partnerships where feasible. He also voiced support for attracting foreign investment to accelerate development projects.
On foreign policy, Kikilias said Greece should maintain active dialogue with all parties and continue seeking strategic partnerships.
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