Greece expands maritime cooperation with Japan and Egypt

Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vasilis Kikilias, is advancing strategic maritime partnerships with Japan and Egypt to strengthen shipping, shipbuilding, and port infrastructure.

In Thessaloniki, Kikilias met with Japanese Minister of Economic Security Minoru Kiuchi to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation. The discussions focused on increasing mutual investments, enhancing Coast Guard collaboration, and addressing the decarbonization of the shipping industry. Kikilias noted that Greek shipowners remain a major presence in Japanese shipyards, ranking second in vessel orders.

Additionally, Kikilias highlighted the strategic importance of maritime cooperation between Greece and Egypt. Following a trilateral meeting involving Cyprus, the Minister emphasized the necessity of protecting freedom of navigation and transit rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. He noted that the connection between the Suez Canal, Egyptian ports, and the Greek shipping network creates significant opportunities for trade and economic development.