AII Workshop on Decarbonization of the Shipping Industry and the Role of Ports in the Adriatic-Ionian Region - 29 April 2025, Piraeus (Greece)
Within the framework of the Greek Chairmanship of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative (AII) (01.06.2024–30.05.2025), an event on “The decarbonisation of shipping and the role of ports in the Adriatic-Ionian region” was successfully held on 29 April 2025 at the Ministry of Shipping and Insular Policy in Piraeus, Greece.
The event featured a video message by the Deputy Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy, Mr. Stefanos Gikas, and opening remarks by Filippo Alabardi, Executive Officer of the AII Permanent Secretariat.
Held in hybrid format, the event gathered over 50 participants, including representatives from maritime administrations, port authorities, industry, academia, and civil society. The discussion was structured around three thematic round tables focused on:
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The challenges and opportunities for the green transition of short sea shipping
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The strategic role of ports in the decarbonisation process
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The need to strengthen regional cooperation and address existing barriers
The workshop highlighted the shared commitment of regional stakeholders to promote a greener, more resilient, and competitive shipping sector. It emphasised the need to develop further regional synergies to accelerate the green transition in line with IMO targets on greenhouse gas emissions.
Discussions also stressed the importance of technological innovation, the adoption and availability of alternative fuels, investment in port infrastructure, and the challenges posed by high implementation costs. Participants agreed that the sustainability of the maritime and port industries in the region depends on enhanced transnational cooperation, the definition of common strategies, and the use of financial instruments.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Vice Admiral Christos Kontorouhas, First Deputy Commander of the Hellenic Coast Guard. The Ministry of Shipping and Insular Policy expressed its appreciation to all participants and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that advance the sustainable development of the maritime and port sectors in the Adriatic-Ionian region.