“Greek shipping: A force for growth and prosperity”

To mark World Maritime Day on 24 September 2026, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias issued the following message:

“World Maritime Day is an opportunity to highlight the importance of shipping to the global economy, trade and prosperity, with a focus on the people who serve and sustain it every day.

“Through an extensive body of international rules, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has, over decades, established the global regulatory framework for safer, more efficient and environmentally sustainable shipping. This year’s celebration highlights precisely the need for international rules to be implemented effectively and to deliver tangible benefits for ships, seafarers, safety at sea and our societies.

“Greece is at the forefront of this effort. As a leading maritime power, with approximately 5,800 Greek-owned ships accounting for around 20% of global tonnage, it has one of the strongest maritime ecosystems in the world.

“Piraeus and the wider Athens area form a leading international ship management centre, with more than 1,820 companies based here and more than 5,650 oceangoing vessels managed from here.

“Shipping, together with Greek ports and a strong network of businesses and services, forms a dynamic maritime cluster that creates jobs, added value and growth for the national economy and local communities.

“The people of shipping are at the heart of this effort: our seafarers, those working in ports and shipping companies, and people across the entire maritime ecosystem.

“As a leading maritime nation and a consistently elected member of Category (a) of the IMO Council, Greece will continue to make a substantial contribution to shaping international rules and ensuring their effective and uniform implementation, with the aim of achieving safe, sustainable and competitive global shipping.

“With confidence in our strengths, a strong voice in international forums and unwavering support for the people of the sea, we continue to keep Greek shipping at the top of the world.

“On the occasion of World Maritime Day, I wish every member of the Greek maritime community and all Greek seafarers health, progress and safe seas.”