Greece is the leading maritime power in the world, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, said during his opening address at the 10th Capital Link Maritime Leaders Summit, held as part of the Posidonia conference.He stressed that Greece, as a global leader in shipping, must play an active role in shaping international decisions concerning the future of the maritime industry rather than merely following developments.Referring to ongoing geopolitical developments and their impact on shipping and global trade, Kikilias noted:“Unfortunately, we continue to operate in an environment defined by crisis. Following the pandemic, a war at the heart of Europe, and an energy crisis, we are now facing conflict in the Middle East, with consequences that are impossible to fully estimate.Given that 80%-90% of global trade is transported by sea, maintaining the security, resilience, and uninterrupted operation of international maritime transport is not simply a shipping priority. It is a strategic imperative for the global economy and international stability.”Addressing the ongoing debate over the shipping industry’s energy transition, the minister called for realistic and pragmatic policymaking that would not undermine the sector’s competitiveness, economic performance, or social cohesion.