On Friday, September 20, 2024, the Heraklion Port Authority (HPA), in collaboration with the Hellenic Ports Association, hosted the international conference “THE ROLE OF PORTS IN MEDITERRANEAN ISLANDS ECONOMIC GROWTH,” organized by the MEDPorts Association for the first time in Greece. The conference focused on the importance of ports for the economic development of Mediterranean islands and attracted distinguished speakers and experts in the field.
Opening Remarks by the Deputy Minister of Shipping and Island Policy
The Deputy Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Stefanos Gikas, inaugurated the conference, emphasizing the strategic importance of ports for the local and national economy. He referred to the recent sale of 67% of the shares of the Heraklion Port to the Grimaldi company, which is expected to lead the port into a new era of development and progress. Mr. Gikas highlighted government actions to improve port infrastructure and connectivity between the islands and mainland Greece, stressing the need for continued investment.
Statements by Minas Papadakis, CEO of HPA
The CEO of HPA, Mr. Minas Papadakis, welcomed the Deputy Minister and the distinguished guests, thanking Ms. Theodora Riga, President of Med Cruise, and the members of the MEDPorts Association. Mr. Papadakis highlighted Crete’s long maritime tradition, from the Minoan civilization to the present day, and emphasized that hosting the conference reinforces the leading role of Heraklion Port in the Mediterranean.
Conference Sessions and Presentations
The conference featured two main thematic sessions, where challenges and opportunities for island ports were discussed:
- Sustainability and Economic Development: Topics included port sustainability, green transition, and smart technologies for small and medium- sized ports. Experts emphasized the importance of investments that respect the environment and enhance port competitiveness, supporting the local community and economy.
- Regional Connectivity and Cruise Development: Presentations explored the potential for developing cruise activities, leisure facilities, and improving the connectivity of island regions with mainland Greece and other international destinations. The presentations highlighted the strategic importance of ports as hubs of tourism and trade.
Panel of Speakers and Discussion
The panel featured leading experts from Europe, coordinated by Ms. Theodora Riga.
Speakers included:
- Pino Musolino, President of the MEDPorts Association and President of the Ports of Rome.
- Jordi Torrent, Secretary General of the MEDPorts Association.
- Luca Lupi, Secretary General of the Western Sicily Port Authority.
- Valeria Mangiarotti, Marketing Director, Sardinia Ports.
- Stella Manioudaki, Deputy General Director, Ports of Chania Prefecture.
- Danique DeJonge, Senior Policy Advisor, European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO).
- Maria Frangou, Senior Expert, ReSEL TUC.
- Antonis Michail, Technical Director, IAP & WPSP.
- Spyros Zervopoulos, CEO, Corfu Port Authority S.A.
- Minas Seimenis, Senior Advisor, HPA S.A.
- Akram Soliman Elselmy, Dean, College of Engineering & Technology, AASTMT.
- Marco Muci, International Development & Country Manager, Escola Europea.
Speakers analyzed the challenges faced by island ports and developed strategies to improve regional connectivity, sustainable development, and the resilience of ports in the face of market and environmental challenges.
Statement by Minas Papadakis:
“It is an honor and privilege for the Heraklion Port Authority to host this important meeting, which promotes collaboration and the exchange of knowledge among leading port experts in the Mediterranean. Through such initiatives, we aim to strengthen Heraklion’s position as a hub of commerce and tourism, while advancing sustainable development and enhancing services for our citizens and visitors.”
Conclusion of the Conference and Key Takeaways
The conference concluded with questions and discussions among the participants, highlighting critical issues of sustainability, connectivity, and long-term development of island ports. Participants agreed that ongoing investment in port infrastructure and the exchange of expertise are key to the prosperity of Mediterranean islands.
