Kikilias voices concern over EU stance ahead of IMO talks
The Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, has expressed strong concern over the position taking shape at European level ahead of crucial negotiations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on decarbonising shipping, in a post on X.
The IMO talks are being held in London from September 1 to September 4, focusing on mid-term measures to reduce emissions from international shipping.
“This week, the international maritime community returns home, at the IMO, to continue discussions on the mid-term measures on shipping decarbonisation. In view of the critical negotiations ahead, I wish to express my strong concern with the relevant preparatory discussions at EU level,” he said and added:
“Regrettably, they have shown a lack of understanding and genuine willingness to demonstrate the flexibility needed to move towards convergence, without taking into due consideration the issues put forth by member states representing more than 70% of EU shipping.”
Kikilias expressed his fear that the persistence on rigid approaches could ultimately undermine the prospects for convergence and, ultimately, for reaching an agreement at the IMO.
”What we need is to bridge ambition with the evolution of fuel, propulsion and technological developments. This should be done with an open and constructive attitude that can lead to measures that are both realistic, technologically feasible and moreover, do not increase costs for families and businesses around the world. International shipping that carries more than 80% of international trade faithfully serves our societies under difficult circumstances. This discussion is existential for shipping. In the end, it is our responsibility towards our societies to guide the industry that connects the world to a safe and sustainable energy transition pathway.”
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