“We need sustainable shipping, both environmentally and economically. For this to happen, the relevant agreements must be adapted accordingly,” said the Minister of Shipping V. Kikilias, speaking at the Cyprus Shipping Conference. He stated, “Europe does not have time. Globally, things are evolving and the decisions that will be made now must be long-term realistic for the shipping industry.”
Referring to the transition to green shipping, he said that “we agree on the framework, but we want realism. LNG has proven its reliability and must be utilized as a transitional fuel. We still do not have zero or near-zero emission fuels, not even to approach the reduction targets of the coming decade. The cost of transition is very high and a significant part of it must return to the shipping industry and the respective infrastructure.”
Regarding the IMO framework, he said that “the shipping sector seeks global measures, but we must not treat it punitively. Instead, we should give it the appropriate tools, in a compatible way, so that it is economically sustainable and contributes to global trade and employment. This is development, this is energy security, this is a better world.” And he added: “Work now, all together. Let’s determine how the IMO agreement will be properly adapted to serve the common interest. Not punishment, but the pursuit of sustainable shipping in all its meanings, economic and environmental, with clear rules.”
“Shipping is the strongest market the EU has to showcase, thanks to its people,” he said, stressing however that “we are far behind in competitiveness, compared to the USA and China.” As he pointed out, “it is a time of crisis but also of planning. The Draghi Report last year clearly stated what we must do. A year has passed. Not many things have been done. It is time for action.”
Finally, referring to maritime education he said: “We are bringing a bill that will reduce bureaucracy and will re-evaluate the schools, public and private, regarding how our children will enter and remain in the shipping sector, where jobs are secured and very well paid.”
