Held by the Embassy and General Consulate of Panama in Greece, the first Athens International Conference focused on the theme “Panama: A Strategic Hub to the World of Maritime Services.” This international event served to officially promote Panama’s International Ship Registry and its inherent advantages. Furthermore, the conference underscored the nation's critical role as a global strategic center for the maritime industry, detailing its integrated logistics platform and outlining lucrative investment opportunities.
The conference which took place in Grand Hyatt Athens, was presided by H.E. Mrs. Julie Lymberopulos Karnakis, Ambassador and General Consul of the Republic of Panama to the Hellenic Republic and with the participation of shipowners and members of the maritime industry from Greece, Italy and Cyprus.
The symposium featured valuable insights from distinguished representatives, including Mr. Salvatore Bacile, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, and Mr. Evangelos Siannis, Manager of the Integrated Operations Control Center at the Panama Canal Authority. Additional contributions came from Mr. Javier Suárez Pinzón, Administrator of the Panama Pacifico Agency, and Mr. Ramón Franco, Director General of the Merchant Marine at the Panama Maritime Authority.
This successful event clearly reflected the presence of Panama’s International Ship Registry within the Greek maritime industry, the importance of promoting foreign investment, and the valuable cooperation between the nations of Panama and Greece.
In a special address Ambassador Lymberopulos Karnakis noted: “'I genuinely hope this conference not only offers valuable perspectives but also brings our nations even closer together. With my Greek heritage, it is especially meaningful to witness the strengthening relationship between Greek and Panamanian industries. I am confident that today’s exchange will open the door to even greater cooperation and mutual growth in the years ahead.”
During their speeches, Mr. Bacile and Mr. Siannis, shared the future of the Panama Canal, mentioning the plans for the development of a gas pipeline – energy corridor, the development of port terminals and for the route to extends their functions as a specialized interoceanic dry canal, promoting Panama as a logistic platform.
Mr. Javier Suárez Pinzón, Administrator of the Panama Pacifico Agency highlighted Panama as a multimodal and industrially integrated hub that provides a competitive legal framework and nurtures emerging talent, fostering collaboration and synergy among companies to promote innovation and growth within its economic clusters.
Lastly, Mr. Ramón Franco, General Director of Merchant Marine, highlighted the recent initiatives undertaken by the Panama Ship Registry, noting the Registry’s renewed emphasis on quality over quantity. He shared that these measures have already contributed to a significant reduction in accident rates, strengthening Panama’s commitment to safety and operational excellence. He also underscored the importance of Panama’s successful completion of the IMSAS (IMO Member State Audit Scheme), a milestone that reflects the country’s strong regulatory performance and adherence to international maritime standards. These advancements, he noted, further enhance Panama’s position as a trusted and forward-looking partner for the global maritime community, including Greece.
Following the official program, guests were invited to a luncheon, that encouraged dialogue, networking, and the strengthening of professional and cultural ties between countries.
The Embassy and General Consulate of Panama expressed great pride in welcoming esteemed representatives from the industry and speakers from the Panama Canal Authority, the Panama Maritime Authority, and the Panama Pacifico Agency. Their expertise, vision, and commitment offered valuable perspectives on how Panama continues to shape the future of global maritime logistics, trade, and technological innovation.
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