“Shipping must be preserved as the guardian of international trade and global prosperity,” the president of the Union of Greek Shipowners, Melina Travlou, said in her speech during the annual general assembly.
In fact, Travlou stressed the importance of the Greek fleet: “As we saw, the Greek-owned fleet remained dominant both in Europe and in the international ranking. With the strategic management of our fleets, we are steadily maintaining our upward trajectory. And, at the same time, we are investing while remaining pioneers. As the leading force in Europe and as a global leader, we must see the new reality with a clear eye.”
She also described the new reality in which:
The sustainability of shipping is more closely linked than ever to international politics.
Competition is not only commercial. It is also geopolitical.
In this era where the competitiveness of our industry is being tested more than ever, its protection and strengthening at the national, European and international levels is of vital importance.
She also emphasized that China is now in first place in the international shipping ranking: “It is a wake-up call that China is now marginally in first place in the international shipping ranking. It is worth noting, of course, that 44% of its existing fleet and 64% of its new orders belong to state-owned companies.
However, we must always remember that our stable goal, stable policy and holistic planning can yield impressive results. In this disruptive environment, we are present where decisions are made. With a responsible, institutional and reliable voice.”
Source: Naftemporiki