Representatives from five Dutch ports emphasized the need for transparency in the implementation of the European Union port strategy during a meeting with European Parliament representatives, including Sergio Gonzalez, Wilmien Koning, and Sarah Matthew. This meeting was chaired by Isabel Riquet, Secretary General of the European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO).
The Need for Significant Investments for Port Sustainability
Achieving sustainability and resilience in European ports requires significant investments in energy infrastructure, docks, rail connections, and inland waterways. These investments also include new facilities for modern energy carriers. Port representatives stressed that companies can only make these long-term investments if policies, regulations, and financing are sufficiently predictable. For this reason, ports urged Europe to maintain the possibility of long-term agreements and to provide suitable financing mechanisms.
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Development of Dual-Use Infrastructure
Port infrastructure can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Docks, rail connections, waterways, and energy facilities are essential for the everyday economy, but may also be necessary for military mobility and resilience in Europe. Port representatives called on the European Union to clearly define the responsibilities for the development, protection, and financing of this dual-use infrastructure. They also emphasized that the implementation of these programs should be carried out in close cooperation with port authorities, governments, and companies operating in ports.
Ports must operate transnationally. Trade flows, energy networks, and industrial value chains do not stop at national borders. Ports urged Europe not to organize regulations and investments solely based on the status of member countries. Greater cooperation between ports and industrial clusters can help improve the alignment of energy infrastructure, internal connections, military mobility, and economic security objectives.
Cooperation in Implementing the Port Strategy
In the upcoming period, the European Parliament will continue to develop its position on the European port strategy. The five Dutch ports intend to closely engage with European policymakers, other ports, and the business community in this process. Their message is clear: Europe has recognized the strategic value of its ports. The next step is to make specific decisions regarding regulations, financing, and responsibilities so that ports can fully contribute to a competitive, sustainable, and resilient Europe.
Isabel Riquet aptly summarized this topic at the end of the session: "Investing in ports is investing in Europe."
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