PORT AUTHORITY “RENAISSANCE“ IN EUROPE

[proud_ionian]

source: MGN

THE newly elected chairman of the European Sea Ports Organisation, Victor Schoenmakers says the role of port authorities has fundamentally changed in the 15 years since ESPO was founded.

Marking the body's 15th anniversary he said: “Whilst some predicted years ago that port authorities would become superfluous, I believe we are witnessing today a renaissance of the port authority in Europe. Not the bureaucratic, semi-governmental institute we used to know, but a dynamic match-maker which facilitates business development and at the same time looks after sustainability of the port and its harmonious integration in environment and society.”

“These developments should also guide us in our work at ESPO”, added Mr. Schoenmakers, “Next to its role as professional organisation and spokesman for the port sector, ESPO should become a genuine think-thank on future challenges of port management and port development. In that way we can really contribute to a professional and flourishing European port sector.”

“Ports are essential for the global competitiveness of Europe. ESPO is ready for it and we shall foster partnerships with colleagues in Europe, with inland ports and service providers, but also overseas”, concluded the ESPO Chairman who said that, next spring, ESPO will sign a memorandum of understanding with the US-based American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA).