The strategic importance of intermodality and green shipping was highlighted during the European Shortsea Network Summit 2025, titled “Walking into a New Era”, which took place on 14 October at the Grand Hyatt Athens.
More than 40 speakers — including European Union officials, government representatives, institutional stakeholders and senior executives from the maritime industry — kept the interest of over 350 participants from across the maritime sector engaged throughout the event.
A key conclusion emerging from the conference discussions was the critical importance of connecting maritime and land transport, which constitutes a fundamental prerequisite for the sustainable development of Greece and its island regions. Strengthening intermodal transport can help decongest road networks, reduce emissions, and enhance the competitiveness of the logistics chain.
Discussions focused on the need to develop efficient intermodal hubs, supported by upgraded infrastructure and improved coordination between different modes of transport. Particular reference was made to regions of growing commercial and strategic importance, such as Alexandroupolis and Southern Peloponnese, where significant investment and long-term development planning are required.
Special emphasis was also placed on the future strategy of European ports, which are called upon to respond to the challenges of decarbonisation, digitalisation and defence, shaping new operational models that will strengthen their resilience and sustainability.
At the same time, the conference highlighted the green transition of logistics and shortsea shipping, prioritising fleet modernisation, the strengthening of human capital, and the development of new low-emission technologies.
Panel participants stressed that the success of the transition depends on effective cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as on realistic regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation without imposing excessive burdens on businesses.
Developments regarding alternative maritime fuels were also discussed. While the potential of biofuels was acknowledged, speakers pointed to their limited availability, while reservations were expressed regarding the long-term viability of hydrogen and LNG, due to the associated environmental and energy challenges. The potential use of nuclear energy in maritime applications was also mentioned, provided that safe and sustainable technological solutions can be ensured.
Another key topic addressed during the conference was the need for alignment between European and international maritime legislation (EU and IMO) in order to avoid double taxation and ensure fair competition.
A panel dedicated to the impact of geopolitical developments on maritime trade flows also attracted particular interest. Speakers highlighted Greece’s significant geostrategic position and the global strength of the Greek shipping industry, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of international trade.
It was emphasised that continuously evolving geopolitical conditions require the maritime industry to constantly reassess and adapt its activities, ensuring the resilience and uninterrupted operation of global trade networks. Greek shipping, as noted, has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt to new circumstances while keeping global trade “in motion.”
An interesting observation was also made that even organisations such as UNESCO have a maritime dimension through their engagement with issues related to oceans and marine sustainability — a fact that further illustrates the global reach and importance of the maritime sector.
In summary, the conference highlighted that intermodality, energy transition, geopolitical adaptability and technological innovation constitute the four key pillars for safeguarding the resilience and competitiveness of both the Greek and the wider European transport system.
The conference was opened by the President of the European Shortsea Network and President of the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association, Charalambos Simantonis.
Introductory remarks were delivered by:
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport & Tourism
Domna Michailidou, Minister of Social Cohesion & Family
Stefanos Gkikas, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy
George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping
John Xylas, Chairman of INTERCARGO and Treasurer of the Union of Greek Shipowners
Efstratios Apergis, Vice President of the Greek Passenger Shipping Association
Keynote speakers included:
Gesine Meissner, European Coordinator for the European Maritime Space
Guido Grimaldi, Corporate Short Sea Shipping Commercial Director, Grimaldi Group
The conference was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, and the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association, and was supported by:
Platinum Sponsor
Consulate of Dominica
Gold Sponsors
ABS, Credia Bank, HEMEXPO, The Marshall Islands Registry, OCEANKING, SEKAVIN
Silver Sponsors
Damen, Eurobank, Liberian Registry, Piraeus Port Authority (OLP)
Lanyards Sponsor
DNV
Bags Sponsor
BV
Program Sponsor
RINA
Media Sponsors
NAFTEMPORIKI, Newsfont/Naftiliaki, mononews, NAFTIKA CHRONIKA, Maritime, ELNAVI, Safety4Sea, Piraeus365, NAFS, maritimes.gr
