“The Greek-owned shipping industry is a national and European strategic asset that must be safeguarded, particularly at a time when its strategic and geopolitical importance is being highlighted more clearly than ever before,” Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in his address at Posidonia 2026.Mitsotakis described shipping as “a source of strategic power linked to the resilience and strategic autonomy of both Greece and Europe, positioning the country as a globally significant commercial player.” Referring to Greece’s position on maritime security, he stated that “Greece actively advocates for the restoration of the previous status quo in the Strait of Hormuz, with no transit tolls or passage fees and with the strait remaining a corridor of free navigation,” adding that Athens “will raise this issue in every diplomatic engagement and at the United Nations Security Council.”The Prime Minister characterized the green transition as “an investment in the future.”“I believe in the green transition, and it is no coincidence that Greece has risen to third place globally in this field,” he said. However, he stressed that while the transition is necessary, “it must not come at the expense of shipping. Any additional costs are ultimately passed on to end users.” Mitsotakis noted that any disruption to freedom of navigation translates into a global energy shock.“You understand the significant geopolitical and geoeconomic influence that Greece derives from the fact that 25% of the global fleet and more than 80% of Europe’s oil and LNG transportation fleet are owned by Greek shipowners. These vessels transport critical commodities and raw materials. This constitutes a strategic advantage for our country, linked to the resilience and strategic autonomy of both Greece and Europe, making Greece an important international player with a pivotal global role.”He recalled that Greece had already made maritime security a central theme of its presidency of the United Nations Security Council several months ago.“The Greek state decided to participate actively in Operation Aspides in the Red Sea in order to safeguard freedom of navigation in practical terms,” he said, referring also to the deployment of the frigate Psara in the region.“Greece is actively pursuing the restoration of the previous status quo in the Strait of Hormuz so that no tolls or transit fees are imposed. The strait must remain a corridor of free navigation, as it has been and should once again become. Greece will continue to raise this issue in every diplomatic engagement and at the United Nations Security Council, as we will again hold the presidency in October,” he added.Mitsotakis also addressed the Green Transition issue, noting that the Greek-owned fleet is already at the forefront of this transformation.“I believe in the Green Transition. Greece has evolved from a net importer of electricity into a country exporting electricity to the Balkans. At the same time, I am a realist. This transition is necessary, but under no circumstances can it undermine the competitiveness of shipping. We must focus on achievable objectives. Global shipping accounts for less than 2% of carbon emissions while transporting 90% of world trade. Until this transition fully matures, we must chart a course that is economically rational and does not impose additional burdens on global shipping. If Europe wishes to remain a prosperous economy, it must avoid ideological rigidity and adopt a pragmatic approach.”He expressed confidence that the concerns raised by Greece and other major maritime nations would be taken into consideration during negotiations on the final regulatory framework.“At the national level, this government can take pride in the revival of Greece’s shipbuilding industry. Shipyards are productive hubs by the sea, creating jobs and offering attractive remuneration. We are equally proud of the dynamism of our ports. We must pay attention not only to the major ports but also to the smallest island ports. We are proud of our coastal shipping sector and particularly proud of Piraeus.”He stressed that this message must resonate throughout society and highlighted the need to make maritime careers more attractive to younger generations.“This is a challenge we must address together. Artificial Intelligence is already being deployed across the industry, but the human factor at sea will always remain decisive. Greece has also succeeded in attracting the management of third-party fleets. We possess all the necessary prerequisites to make the Greek flag an increasingly attractive choice as well.”The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence in the future of Greek shipping.“I am optimistic that Greek men and women will continue to dominate the world’s oceans. The vision, pragmatism and boldness that brought Greek shipping to the top of the global industry will remain its greatest strengths. The Greek state will continue to be a steadfast ally, recognizing shipping as a unique global competitive advantage for our country. Together, we can achieve even more and we can progress further. I wish every success to Posidonia and fair seas to all.”