Brussels, November 5, 2024 — The designated European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, will play a pivotal role in securing supply chains and decarbonising the shipping sector, the World Shipping Council said, welcoming the opportunity to continue a constructive dialogue with the EU Commission.

Commissioner-designate Tzitzikostas’ list of priorities should include protecting maritime supply chains against illegal trafficking and geopolitical dangers, integrating renewable energy into the transportation system, streamlining customs and administrative processes, and promoting effective public-private partnerships. The WSC is eager to collaborate with the new Commissioner on initiatives that enhance the security of European supply chains and the resilience of the shipping sector, to strengthen EU competitiveness. 

“We are confident that Commissioner designate Tzitzikostas will be instrumental in coordinating transportation, energy, and industry policies to promote sustainable shipping. We value our good working relationship with DG MOVE, and we relish the opportunity to partner with the new Commissioner to advance our shared objectives for the benefit of the industry and the broader EU economy,” said WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek.

To combat climate change, we must collectively take immediate action to achieve long-term sustainability goals. The WSC urges the EU to work constructively with International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states to ensure global greenhouse gas regulations that make it possible for green fuels to compete with fossil fuels. 

The decarbonisation of the transport network and improvement of the energy network need to go hand in hand. Continuing to improve the EU transport and energy network will enhance the EU’s competitive position as well as support the global transition to decarbonisation. Low-GHG transportation networks depend upon fully integrated renewable energy networks, to ensure there is a strong supply of green maritime fuels and to prevent service disruptions in the coming years.

For more information on the World Shipping Council recommendations for EU policy priorities, please visit EU Policy Priorities — World Shipping Council. 

On the Confirmation process: Based on the committee recommendations, the Conference of Presidents makes the final evaluation and declares the hearings closed on 21 November, after which the evaluation letters will be published. The election by MEPs of the full college of Commissioners is currently scheduled to take place during the 25-28 November plenary session in Strasbourg.

Source, World Shipping Council