V., the global ship manager and marine services provider, has entered into a new partnership with Greek shipowner Silk Searoad Maritime S.A for the technical management of their bulk and tanker fleet of eight vessels. Through the partnership, Silk Searoad will benefit from access to V.’s breadth of integrated marine services, global scale, expertise and data-driven platforms, allowing it to enhance safety, fleet performance and costs to better meet its evolving customer demands.

1. will oversee the long-term management and performance of Silk Searoad’s fleet, currently comprising of five bulk carriers and three tankers.

Support from V. will span daily operations onboard, including improved working conditions for crew through robust safety and welfare policies, proactive maintenance planning, and standardisation of processes across the fleet, with Silk Searoad benefiting from V.’s optimised vessel performance and compliance support.

Silk Searoad will also have access to a number of marine services across V. including Marcas – a contracting association combining purchasing volume across its members to secure competitive terms for goods and services.
The vessels will be managed by V.’s office in Greece. V.Ships Greece has more than 30 years of experience in ship management and is the first and largest company offering third-party ship management services in Greece.
Robert Desai, CEO, V.Ships, said: “We look forward to this new partnership with Silk Searoad and to supporting them in meeting their growth ambitions, today and in the years to come. This is the start of a long-term collaboration, driven by continuous growth through shared expertise, data and best practices.
“Silk Searoad represents a dynamic new generation of Greek shipping, combining youthful ambition with deep maritime heritage. Our experience, local expertise and global scale will be key in enhancing Silk Searoad’s market position and supporting them at a time of increasing industry complexity.”
Andreas Zissimatos, Managing Director at Silk Searoad, commented: “At Silk Searoad, we remain focused on disciplined, forward-thinking fleet development, built on long-term partnerships with reliable counterparties. V.’s approach and dedication to operational excellence are what stood out to us as a strong fit, particularly as we continue to grow and scale up. Their proven track record and operational frameworks, global reach, advanced systems and digital backbone are all key enablers for us in optimising our services and operations.

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Two decades of dedication and progress for the welfare of seafarers
 

The Cyprus Shipping Chamber, joins the international shipping community in commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC2006), a landmark instrument that has fundamentally transformed the global shipping industry by establishing comprehensive standards for the working and living conditions of seafarers and which has rightly won the title of the most successful international maritime labour agreement ever implemented. 

Since its adoption, MLC2006 has become widely recognised as the “fourth pillar” of the international maritime regulatory framework, complementing key safety and environmental conventions. Over the past two decades, it has played a pivotal role in promoting decent work at sea, safeguarding seafarers’ rights, and ensuring fair competition among shipowners through a harmonised global regime. 

The Shipping Chamber has consistently supported the effective implementation of MLC2006, recognising that the welfare, dignity, and professionalism of seafarers are essential to the sustainability and resilience of the shipping industry. Cyprus, as one of the world’s leading maritime centres and flag states, has ratified the MLC2006 Convention in 2012 and has been a strong advocate of the Convention’s objectives, working closely with international organisations, shipowners, and social partners to uphold high labour standards. 

For the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, the 20th anniversary of MLC2006 is an important reminder that seafarers are at the heart of global trade. Let us therefore, recognise and honour the efforts of Seafarers around the world, who play a vital role in world trade and truly contribute in ensuring a stable world economy and society.

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The 9th Annual Capital Link Cyprus Shipping Forum, held in Limassol, convened at a historic turning point as the Cyprus Registry celebrates its most significant expansion in a quarter-century. Surging to a 25-year high, the registry reported a 20% increase in ship tonnage and a 26% rise in new company registrations, driven by aggressive digitalization and competitive tax reforms. This robust growth provided a triumphant backdrop for the forum’s mission to address international shipping’s most pressing hurdles.

Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President of Capital Link, Inc., and Conference Chairman Mr. George A. Tsavliris, Principal of Tsavliris Salvage Group, opened the event by emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the industry's evolving landscape.

A focal point of the event was a 1x1 discussion between Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis and Mr. Nicolas Montanios of Montanios & Montanios LLC. They highlighted the registry’s recent 23% performance leap and looked forward to the informal ministerial meeting on April 29th in Nicosia. This meeting will see the endorsement of the Lefkosia Declaration, a landmark document placing the "human element," modern maritime education, and the increased participation of women at the core of the EU's maritime future.

Further reinforcing the policy perspective, Ms. Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi, Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism, delivered keynote remarks on the "turning point" of European transport policy, focusing on how the Cyprus maritime cluster maintains resilience and competitiveness amidst global shifts.

The forum also paused to honor industry excellence, presenting the Capital Link Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Acis Montanios, CEO of Montanios & Montanios LLC. Transitioning to technical challenges, Mr. Theo Kourmpelis of Lloyd’s Register provided a vital regulatory update on the path to Net Zero. This sparked a rigorous debate on fleet renewal moderated by Mr. Vassilis Dimoulas of Bureau Veritas. Panelists including Mr. Antonis Faraklas of Chartworld Shipping, Dr. George D. Pateras of Contships Management, and Capt. Eberhard Koch of OL Shipping weighed the high costs of new builds against market reliability. Dr. Loukas Barmparis of Safe Bulkers notably argued that dual-fuel vessels serve as a strategic hedge against future local regulations, protecting the competitiveness of the Greek and Cypriot fleets.

The digital frontier was explored in a session on AI and commercial optimization, moderated by Mr. Joe Woods of ABS Consulting. Mr. Konstantinos Vlachos of CASTOR and Mr. Dimitris Vastarouchas of Danaos Corporation debated whether AI is a threat or an opportunity, concluding it is a powerful tool for fuel optimization and safety, provided it remains subordinate to human decision-making. Mr. Konstantinos Stampedakis of ERMA TECH GROUP and Mr. Vasileios G. Petousis of Seanergy Maritime Holdings explained how AI strategy is now essential for reducing carbon intensity and managing technical performance. Mr. Tsavliris concluded the segment by reminding attendees that AI should supplement, not substitute, human expertise.

In the realm of shipmanagement, a panel moderated by Mr. Nicos Attas of RINA Cyprus featured leaders such as Mr. Basil Sakellis of Alassia NewShips, Capt. Franck Kayser of Asyad Shipping, Mr. Dieter Rohdenburg of InterMaritime, and Mr. Prabhat Kumar Jha of MSC Shipmanagement. They stressed that modern shipmanagement is now entirely performance-oriented, relying on economies of scale and innovative technologies to help smaller and medium sized shipowners navigate the complex energy transition.

The forum addressed the state of ship finance in a discussion moderated by Mr. George Zambartas of Hill Dickinson LLP. Financial experts including Mr. Nikolaos Kagkarakis of Alpha Bank, Mr. Nicholas Pavlidis of Bank of Cyprus, Mr. Philipp Wünschmann of Berenberg, Mr. Aris Patounas of Eurobank, and Mr. Jan William Denstad of Sole Projects noted that while capital is currently abundant—particularly from East Asia—the sector faces rising costs due to Basel 4 compliance and geopolitical instability. They concluded that environmental sustainability has shifted from a preference to a core requirement for accessing project financing in 2026.

2nd part of the forum

The forum highlighted the critical intersection of energy security, shipping logistics, and geopolitical strategy, beginning with a panel moderated by Ms. Dorothea Ioannou, CEO of American P&I Club. During this session, Minister Michael Damianos of the Republic of Cyprus and Dr. Daniel E. Mangis, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, emphasized the pivotal roles of Greece and Cyprus as regional energy hubs. They detailed how these nations are positioned to enhance stability by facilitating the supply of U.S. LNG through the "Vertical Corridor" to Europe and collaborating with American oil producers to exploit energy resources, ultimately strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries and U.S.in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Shifting the focus to the maritime sector, Mr. Andreas Papachristodoulou of Stephenson Harwood moderated a discussion on shipping amidst global commerce and regulations. Mr. Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of Columbia Group, voiced concerns that any pause in the IMO’s net-zero framework might trigger a fragmented surge in regional environmental rules. He and Mr. Spyros Vlassopoulos, Managing Director of Ionic, both stressed the increasing complexity of sanction compliance, noting that avoiding sanctioned trades is now essential for maintaining access to international financial markets. Mr. Filippo Fabbri, CEO of Lockton P.L. Ferrari, further examined how the "shadow fleet" and sanctions are impacting the P&I and marine insurance sectors, while Ms. Eman Abdalla, Founder of SeaThrew, argued that resilience and reliability have become the new benchmarks for navigating today's market "minefields."

To provide a charterer’s perspective, Mr. Polys Hajioannou, CEO of Safe Bulkers and President of the Cyprus Union of Shipowners, led a conversation with Mr. Tim Barrett of Cargill Ocean Transportation and Mr. Carl Andrew Dacombe of Mercuria Shipping Pte Ltd. Both representatives expressed optimism for the Capesize market through 2026, noting that high rates are being sustained by robust Atlantic iron ore and West African bauxite flows to China rather than a general commodity rally. They also highlighted that charterers are increasingly rewarding shipowners who adopt operational upgrades for fuel optimization and vessel efficiency.

The forum concluded with a panel on shipowner investment and competition, moderated by Mr. Leonidas Karystios of DNV Maritime. The panel featured prominent industry leaders including Mr. Andreas Hadjiyiannis of Cyprus Sea Lines, Mr. Aristides J. Pittas of Euroseas Ltd., Mr. George Mouskas of Olympia Ocean Carriers, and Mr. Polys Hajioannou. Mr. Pittas noted the difficulty of market forecasting in a volatile geopolitical climate, choosing to focus on "eco" designs and LNG-ready vessels rather than full LNG propulsion. Mr. Hadjiyiannis warned that regulations like the EU ETS and FuelEU could harm European competitiveness, while Mr. Mouskas pointed out the challenge of investing in new fuels without a permanent global solution. Finally, Mr. Hajioannou shared his company's strategy of avoiding war zones to protect crew and assets, as the panel collectively urged European regulators to recognize the vital importance of Greek, Cypriot, and Maltese shipping to the continent's supply autonomy.

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As part of their long-standing cooperation, the Chairs of the Round Table Associations met recently in Athens and reaffirmed their commitment to working together and coordinating positions on the key challenges facing international shipping.

Paul Pathy, President of BIMCO, John Xylas, Chair of INTERCARGO, Claes Berglund, Vice Chair of the International Chamber of Shipping, and Rolf Westfal-Larsen Jr, Chair of INTERTANKO, all came together to enhance collaboration across the industry and address shipping’s collective challenges.

The agenda of the meeting included the key issues of seafarer safety and welfare, the gradual erosion of the international regulatory framework, and decarbonisation.

Following the meeting, the Associations jointly commented: “Our industry remains robust and resilient and continues to rely on a stable, global regulatory framework, which we are collectively committed to. Going forward we must be pragmatic, and our aim is to ensure that shipping remains relevant and well equipped to carry out its crucial role in serving world trade, without which, the world economy cannot operate.

“At times of geopolitical uncertainty and conflict, the safety and welfare of seafarers must remain at the forefront of industry priorities. Seafarers are fundamental to shipping and to global trade, and any threat to shipping that places them at risk is unacceptable. Protecting and supporting those who work at sea is a shared responsibility across the industry.

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DNV has appointed Ilias Tsonos as Regional QHSE & Production Manager for Greater China, effective 1 July 2026. In this role, Ilias will lead Quality and Production activities across the region, working closely with shipyards, owners, and DNV’s expert teams to ensure the highest standards in newbuilding and ships‑in‑operation projects.

This appointment carries added significance for the Greek maritime stakeholders, as it provides a strong bridge between Greek owners and Asian shipyards - combining deep technical expertise with cultural understanding and direct, hands‑on engagement at yard level.

Ilias Tsonos with more than 20 years of experience across China, Korea, Japan, Greece, and Norway, brings extensive know‑how in: Newbuilding project management, Production support and quality assurance, Regulatory compliance, Materials and welding and Direct coordination with major global and Greek customers.

His long-standing involvement in newbuilding supervision and his close working relationships with shipyards are particularly valuable at a time when many Greek owners continue to invest heavily in new tonnage in China.

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In an era defined by global economic complexity and geopolitical volatility, the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB) recently gathered to honor a decade of academic and industry leadership: the 10th anniversary of the MSc in International Shipping, Finance & Management (ISFM).

A Visionary Foundation

The ceremony opened with remarks from Professor Vasilis Vasdekis, Rector of AUEB, who lauded the program’s commitment to academic rigor and its role in offering high-level learning that bridges the gap between theory and practice.

Professor Manolis G. Kavussanos, the program’s founder, reflected on the journey that began a decade ago. "Greek shipping deserves a world-class academic program," he stated. Today, the program stands as a pillar of the maritime cluster, bolstered by the ISFM Lab, international collaborations, and a dedicated Shipping Advisory Panel. In recognition of his foundational role and tireless dedication, Professor Kavussanos was presented with an award for his outstanding contribution.

Bridging Academia and Policy

The event featured insights from Assoc. Prof. Dimitris A. Tsouknidis (Director of the MSc), Stefanos Gkikas (Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs), and George Alexandratos (President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping). The speakers emphasized that as the industry faces the dual challenges of the green transition and digital transformation, the ISFM program plays a critical role in strengthening Greece’s position in the global educational landscape. With graduates hailing from over 10 countries, the program boasts an exceptional immediate employment rate.

Insights from Industry Titans

The celebration was highlighted by keynote presentations from three of the most prominent figures in Greek shipping:

• • Dr. John Coustas (CEO, Danaos Corp), Focused on the green transition, Dr. Coustas noted that while shipping is the most efficient form of transport—five times more efficient than trucking—the path to "Net Zero" is complex. He warned that while Europe’s regulatory ambitions are commendable, they carry risks. He advocated for global coordination and increased R&D rather than punitive measures.
• • Admiral (Hon.) Panos Laskaridis (Chairman, Laskaridis Shipping), Addressed the "Four Pillars of Challenge" for the industry: decarbonization, European competitiveness, the maritime "single window" for administration, and the critical shortage of seafarers. He called for a revitalization of maritime education to attract young talent and maintain the Greek flag's prominence.
• • Mr. Thanassis Martinos (Chairman, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime): Analyzed how geopolitical shifts, such as the war in Ukraine and disruptions in the Red Sea, have reshaped trade routes. He noted that while "tonne-miles" have increased due to longer routes, Greek shipowners continue to thrive by operating within a framework of perfect competition.

The Business Advisory Council: A Bridge to the Future

The event concluded with a panel from the Business Advisory Council, which acts as a bridge between academia and the industry is constituted by the following leading personalities:

• • John Cotzias, President, HellenicShipbrokersAssociation and Xclusiv Shipbrokers
• • Faye Frangedis, Director, TrafiguraMaritime Ventures
• • Nicholas Kosmatos,Managing Director, Sealink Navigation Ltd.
• • Christina Margelou, Head of Shipping Finance, Eurobank S.A.
• • Foteini Mega,Associate Partner, Assurance Services, Ernst & Young
• • George Teriakidis, Regional Manager, Southeast Europe, Maritime, DNV
• • Stamatis Tsantanis, Chairman & CEO, Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp.

The members of the advisory committee wished every success to the program and expressed their gratitude to be part of the program and the panel. The also pointed out that shipping is a non static business so the students have to improve continuously their skills and competences. The council members encouraged students to love shipping in order to see their career flourishing.

The council’s message to the next generation was clear: success in this industry requires continuous skill improvement, a deep understanding of the industry’s fundamentals and, above all, a passion for the sea.

The event was concluded with Alumni’s message Nick Adamis, Senior Credit Risk Analyst, Trafigura, Stefania Liveri, Executive Director at Lidmar Shipping and Trading company Ltd. and Kjetil Sundfaer, Liner Agent, Håkull Shipping and Acknowledgements of long-standing service to the Program to Visiting Professor Gianluca Mattarocci, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy and Dr. Stella Moysiadou, Adjunct Faculty and Post-Doctoral Researcher, ISFM Lab, AUEB.

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The ceremony, co-organized by XRTC Business Consultants (led by George Xiradakis) and the China Classification Society (CCS), served as an opportunity to present the 2026 roadmap for Sino-Greek maritime cooperation.

Ambassador Fang QIU emphasized that 2026 marked the 20th anniversary of the China-Greece Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He noted that this year is also the inaugural year of China's Five-Year Plan, which will prioritize "green" and "intelligent" maritime development.

He highlighted that Greece and China together control roughly 50% of the world’s shipping fleet. He extended a warm invitation to Greek shipowners to continue playing a central role in transporting Chinese imports and exports, noting that China has remained the world's top trading nation for nearly a decade.

The Ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to:

• • Providing competitive financing for Greek shipowners building vessels in Chinese yards.
• • Deepening cooperation in Green Shipping (decarbonization) and Digital Port Management.
• • Encouraging Greek maritime equipment manufacturers to integrate into the Chinese shipbuilding supply chain.

He pointed to the Port of Piraeus as the gold standard for bilateral cooperation, noting its rise to the largest container port in the Mediterranean and its role in creating over 12,000 local jobs.

True to the tradition of the "Vasilopita" (pitta cutting), he drew parallels between the Greek custom and the Chinese Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse), wishing for the bilateral relationship to move forward with the "strength and speed" symbolized by the horse.

During the same ceremony (February 2026), the event co-host George Xiradakis, Managing Director of XRTC Business Consultants and President of the Association of Banking & Financial Executives of Hellenic Shipping, focused his remarks on the operational and economic "win-win" nature of the Sino-Greek relationship.

Mr. Xiradakis underlined a powerful statistic: combined, Greece and China control approximately 50% of global shipping. He argued that this mutual leadership makes their cooperation not just beneficial, but essential for the stability of global trade.

He noted that the relationship has become a circular economic engine: Greek shipowners transport a significant portion of Chinese cargo (roughly 20% of all Chinese imports/exports), while simultaneously utilizing Chinese shipyards for their newbuilding programs.

Mr. Xiradakis highlighted that Chinese financial institutions are no longer just "alternative" lenders but have become "primary partners" for the Greek shipping community, especially as Western banks have faced stricter regulatory hurdles.

He stressed that the next decade of cooperation will be defined by the "Green Transition." He called for closer collaboration between Greek technical expertise and Chinese manufacturing capacity to meet the IMO’s decarbonization targets.

Mr. Xiradakis praised the role of the China Classification Society (CCS) in Athens, noting that their local presence has significantly streamlined the technical and safety certification process for Greek vessels being built or repaired in Asia.

In a speech at the same event that the 2026 Chinese Year of the Horse was also held, CCS Managing Director Cui Yuwei referred to The robust maritime partnership between China and Greece. He said: A cornerstone of this success is the Port of Piraeus, which has created 12,000 jobs and bolstered Greece’s GDP.

Greek shipowners currently manage the world’s largest fleet, carrying over 20% of China’s ocean freight and 50% of its energy imports. Despite these achievements, the industry faces pressures regarding fleet renewal and green transformation. To address this, the China Classification Society (CCS)—which now surveys 212 million gross tons globally—has outlined four strategic priorities for 2026:

1. Digitalization: Implementing the IMO MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships) Code for intelligent ship design.
2. Decarbonization: Developing green fuels and carbon capture systems.
3. Regulatory Collaboration: Coordinating Sino-Greek positions on international maritime policies.
4. Talent Cultivation: Training professionals for emerging technologies.

This "win-win" cooperation aims to harmonize technological innovation with sustainable shipping safety.

"Greece and China have embarked on a joint journey of cooperation for many years... China is ready to share its development opportunities with Greek shipowners, who are our most trusted partners on the seas."

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As the maritime industry enters a transformative era defined by regulatory balkanization and geopolitical friction, the 9th Slide2Open Shipping Finance Conference announces its 2026 edition: “The Shipping Nexus – The Urgency for Convergence”.

Taking place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the InterContinental Athenaeum, the conference serves as a critical bridge between macro-geopolitical strategy and micro-financial action. The conference is steered by a distinguished Advisory Board chaired by Mr Leonidas Dimitriadis-Eugenides (IMO Ambassador in Greece; President, Eugenides Foundation), and featuring prominent industry leaders including Mr George Sp. Alexandratos, Mr Dimitrios J. Fafalios, and Mr George D. Pateras.

A Model Under Pressure

The 2026 program centres on a profound shift in the industry’s identity. In 2026, the traditional Greek shipping model, defined by intuition and asset play, is being tested by a “Perfect Storm” of external pressures. Shipowners today are no longer just maritime managers; they are geopolitical navigators and carbon accountants. This evolution forms the backbone of the day’s discussions, moving from the engine room to the highest levels of global diplomacy.

Navigating an “Unpolar” World

Under the chairmanship of Mr. Yuri Bender (Financial Times) and Mr. Angelos Roupas Pantaleon (EUROMAR), the agenda deconstructs the shift toward a fragmented global order.

High-level sessions will address the “weaponization of trade” and the “instrumentalization of supply chains”, featuring insights from global strategists including Dr Arnab Das, Dr Louise Tumchewics and Prof. Athanasios Platias.

Highlights of the 2026 Nexus:

- The Sovereignty Clash: A deep dive into the “regulatory maze” of IMO frameworks versus regional mandates like FuelEU, examining the collision between political ambition and engineering reality.

- Mind the Gap: When Green Ambition meets Market Reality. Maritime innovators confront high-cost dual-fuel newbuildings without a synchronized support ecosystem.

- The Fuel Mirage: This panel moves past the “wishful thinking” of pilot projects to address the systemic chokepoints of 2026: the absence of global bunkering hubs, the “stranded asset” risk of unproven technologies, and the visceral safety profiles of tomorrow’s fuels. A reality check on alternative fuels, featuring DESFA and DEPA Commercial to bridge the “Land-to-Sea” connection through strategic infrastructure like the Alexandroupolis FSRU.

- The Owner’s Dilemma: A high-level panel of Greek shipowners, discussing the “Cost of Chaos” and capital mobility.

- A Landmark Alliance: A live on-stage signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Eugenides Foundation and IMarEST, launching a strategic partnership to modernize maritime education and bridge the global 90,000-officer gap.

The Intelligence Edge

The conference concludes by focusing on the “Intelligence Edge”, exploring how digital defence and human capital must synchronize. From a spotlight on crew logistics to an analysis of the “Strategic Instinct” and operational grit of Greek maritime leadership, the event reaffirms the Greek fleet’s resilience in the face of the “Triple Pressure” of high-interest capital, weaponized trade, and technical energy transition.

“Our goal is not just to discuss what shipping must do next, but how the entire ‘Nexus’ can urgently converge to provide the clarity required for global trade to thrive”, says Mrs Despina Travlou, chair of the Organizing Committee "Shipping has Stepped Up. Now the Ecosystem must Align”.

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Maritime ICT Community gathers at Istioploikos, Mikrolimano

The Association of Maritime IT & Communications Professionals (AMMITEC) held its annual Pita Party 2026 on Wednesday, 11 February, at Istioploikos, Mikrolimano, welcoming more than 350 delegates from across the maritime digitization ecosystem.

The event reaffirmed its standing as a key gathering for the Maritime ICT community, bringing together members, sponsors, partners, and industry stakeholders for an evening of networking and collaboration.

Attendance reflected AMMITEC’s continued growth and sectoral reach, with representatives from shipping companies, maritime service providers, technology firms, and industry bodies. Among the organizations present, AMMITEC extends its appreciation for the valued cooperation of WISTA, YES Forum, and INTERCARGO.
A highlight of the evening was the traditional raffle draw, where AMMITEC ICT members won 36 prizes, generously offered by the Association’s sponsors. We warmly thank all sponsoring companies for their contributions and support.

The evening combined professional engagement with a festive atmosphere, offering attendees the opportunity to reconnect, exchange perspectives, and strengthen industry ties in the waterfront setting of Mikrolimano, marking another successful milestone for the AMMITEC community.

About AMMITEC: Founded in 2003, AMMITEC is the leading professional association for Maritime IT & Communications specialists in Greece, promoting digital transformation, cybersecurity resilience, and technology collaboration across the shipping industry.

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Providing a Strategic Insights and Global Maritime Leadership, The Capital Link Athens Forum 2026 commenced with welcome remarks from Mr. George Teriakidis (DNV Maritime) and Mr. Nicolas Bornozis (Capital Link, Inc.), setting the stage for a comprehensive dialogue on the industry's most pressing challenges. The Net Zero Debate, moderated by Dr. John Kokarakis (Bureau Veritas), brought together Mr. Mikki Koskinen (ESL Shipping/ECSA), Ms. Fotini Ioannidou (European Commission), Mr. Alfonso Castillero (LISCR), and Ms. Ioanna Procopiou (Prominence Maritime/BIMCO). The panel underscored the complexities of the energy transition, a theme expanded upon in the "Steering the Course" session moderated by Ms. Anthi Miliou (Lloyd’s Register). There, Mr. John Xylas (INTERCARGO/Ariston Navigation), Mr. Paul Pathy (BIMCO/Fednav), Mr. Claes Berglund (ICS/Stena), and Mr. Rolf Westfal-Larsen Jr. (INTERTANKO) emphasized that while decarbonization progress is being made—particularly in dry bulk—the priority must remain on seafarer welfare, safety, and the urgent need for re-skilling personnel to navigate a hazardous and unprecedented regulatory landscape.

The financial backbone of the industry was explored through two specialized panels. The Bank Finance session, moderated by Mr. Anthony Paizes (Hill Dickinson LLP) and featuring Mr. Vangelis Nomikos (ABN AMRO), Mr. Yiannis Karamanolis (Alpha Bank), Mr. Christos Tsakonas (DNB), Mr. Vassilios Maroulis (Citi), and Mr. Evan Cohen (First Citizens Bank). They mentioned that while banks remain resilient and innovative, financing specific green fuels remains premature due to a lack of global bunkering infrastructure. Complementing this, the Alternative Finance panel—moderated by Mr. Chris Vartzis (Stephenson Harwood) with Mr. Nicholas M. Petrakakos (Alantra), Mr. Eahan Shi (Bank of China Leasing), Mr. George Fikaris (EnTrust Global), and Mr. Sakis Voudris (Neptune Maritime Leasing)—noted that geopolitical volatility and sanctions are driving creativity and risk diversification through alternative financial instruments.

Technological evolution was addressed in the Digital Horizon panel, where moderator Ms. Maria Kyratsoudi (ABS) joined Mr. Yiannis Kourkoulis (Best Oasis/Armi Shipmanagement), Mr. Mark O'Neil (Columbia Group/InterManager), Mr. Konstantinos Stampedakis (ERMA TECH), and Mr. Ben Richardson (Sulnox). The group argued that AI must be human-driven and rigorously tested to ensure data accuracy, moving the industry from personal experience to "company intelligence" to eliminate human error. 

This technical shift was framed by geopolitical realities in a session moderated by Ms. Dorothea Ioannou (American P&I Club), featuring Mr. Michael Parker (Citi), Mr. Richard Fulford-Smith (Eden Ocean/Affinity), Mr. Peter G. Livanos (GasLog), and Dr. Anthony S. Papadimitriou (Onassis Foundation). Mr. Livanos and Dr. Papadimitriou both issued strong calls for unified global regulations over fragmented regional rules to ensure safe and efficient cargo movement.

The Keynote Ministerial Roundtable, moderated by Mr. George Teriakidis, featured Minister Vasilis Kikilias (Greece), Minister Marina Hadjimanolis (Cyprus), Minister Chris Bonett (Malta), and DAS Marco M. Sylvester (U.S. Department of State). The ministers emphasized that regulation must not outpace the availability of fuels, with the U.S. representative advocating for "common sense" and realistic goals over overly ambitious net-zero frameworks. 

The forum also paused to honor Mr. Pantelis Eleftherios (Lou) Kollakis (Chartworld Group) with the Greek Shipping Leadership Award, introduced by Mr. George A. Tsavliris (Tsavliris Salvage) and Mr. Adam Polemis (New Shipping). Mr. Kollakis advised the next generation to maintain patience in a sector defined by unpredictable global events.

Finally, the discussion turned to investment and regional security. The Investor View panel—led by Mr. Konstantinos Mexias (Watson Farley & Williams) with Mr. Bastian Hagebeuker (Blue Star), Sofia Kalomenides (DNB Carnegie), Mr. Felix Nölke (MPC Capital), and Mr. Alexis Atteslis (Oak Hill Advisors)—highlighted that shipping now enjoys better access to capital due to strong recent performance. 

Moderated by Mr. Morten Løvstad (DNV), panelists Mr. Alexandros Exarchou (AKTOR), Mr. Frangiskos Kanellakis (Alpha Bulkers/Pantheon/Alpha Gas), Dr. Nikolas P. Tsakos (TEN LTD) and Mr. Joshua Huck (U.S. Embassy) discussed the strategic "vertical corridor" in Alexandroupolis and other energy projects. Dr. Tsakos highlighted the Greek dominance in the LNG market, while Mr. Kanellakis championed LNG as the only currently viable transitional fuel for immediate environmental benefits.

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