Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias met with Spain’s Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility Oscar Puente on Monday, April 17, in the presence of the Spanish Ambassador to Greece, Jorge Domecq.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the pivotal role Greece and Spain play as leading maritime powers in Europe. Particular emphasis was placed on the shared challenges facing Mediterranean ports within the European Union, especially in terms of strengthening their competitiveness.

In this context, the two countries agreed to maintain close and ongoing coordination, with the aim of further reinforcing Mediterranean ports as stable engines of growth for their national economies.

Decarbonisation of shipping also featured prominently in the discussions. Kikilias stressed the need for a pragmatic approach at both European and international levels, particularly in light of ongoing deliberations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

He underscored that the transition must reflect market realities, including the availability of alternative fuels, as well as the economic pressures currently faced by European economies and households.