The upcoming conference focusing on the enhancement of port infrastructure in Greece is set to take place on October 15, 2024, in Athens. This event aims to address critical issues surrounding maritime safety and the urgent need for improved facilities at Greek ports, which are vital for both domestic and international maritime traffic.
Key participants will include maritime industry leaders, government officials, and representatives from the Greek Merchant Marine Captains Association. The main agenda will revolve around the findings of the recent annual report by the association, which highlights significant deficiencies in 102 ports across the country.
The conference is expected to have a profound impact on global maritime operations, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The discussions will focus on the allocation of maritime fees collected through passenger tickets, which currently amount to approximately €30-35 million annually. Stakeholders will advocate for these funds to be reinvested into port infrastructure, which could dramatically enhance safety and efficiency.
Attendees should watch for key proposals aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving safety regulations for captains, who often face legal repercussions for incidents stemming from infrastructural inadequacies. The event will also feature testimonials from captains about their daily challenges and the critical need for better facilities.
As the president of the Greek Merchant Marine Captains Association, Dionysis Theodoratos, stated, “We have been discussing the same issues for years, but nothing has changed.” This sentiment underscores the urgency of the conference and the collective responsibility to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
In conclusion, the conference on October 15 promises to be a pivotal moment for the maritime industry in Greece, with the potential to influence policies that affect not only local operations but also international maritime standards.