PPA S.A.: Successful completion of the 5th Balkans & Black Sea Forum held at the premises of the Piraeus Port Authority

This year’s 5th Balkans & Black Sea Forum (BBSF 2024), themed “Trading Arteries & Global Supply Chains at Stake”, took place on Thursday, February 15, 2024, highlighting the crucial role of our country’s largest port in global trade and supply chain, as a major maritime gateway.

BBSF 2024, dedicated to fostering institutional and commercial cross-border collaboration among Central and Eastern European countries, the Balkans, and the Black Sea region, drew attendance from the international community, diplomats, heads of international organizations and business leaders.

Among the distinguished speakers was the Ambassador of China to Greece, Mr. Xiao Junzheng while the forum was opened by Deputy Minister of Economy & Finance, Mr. Nikos Papathanasis, representing the Prime Minister.

PPA’s Chairman, Mr. Yu Zenggang, in his welcoming remarks, underscored the remarkable progress witnessed at the Port of Piraeus across infrastructure, digital innovation, and green growth initiatives. Notable among these advancements is the recent inauguration of the car terminal expansion, a landmark development marking a significant milestone for the transportation industry. Mr. Yu highlighted the steadfast resilience demonstrated by PPA S.A. amidst the volatile global landscape through the company’s consistent record economic performance in recent years, further reinforced by the cross-country collaborations in the wider area.

In his address, Mr. Yu Zenggang emphasized: “The Port of Piraeus has a vital role as a key maritime, transport and trade hub at the intersection of the Balkans and Southeastern Europe, serving as a catalyst for cross-country connectivity, collaboration and growth. There is considerable untapped potential for cooperation, which can be further explored through our steady, mutual and sustainable cooperation. The shared vision of our countries for the future should revolve around the concept of green and innovative concepts. We should ensure growth that harmonizes with the environment, while actively supporting and enhancing well-being. The growth of the region should stand as pillar of prosperity, stability and sustainability for today and the generations to come.”

About PPA S.A.

Piraeus Port Authority SA is an Athens Stock Exchange listed company engaged in the management and operation of Piraeus port, Greece’s largest port and one of the largest integrated harbours in Europe, providing a complete range of services. Some of the company’s activities involve cruise, coastal (ferry/passenger), container and car terminal services, as well as general cargo, ship repair, logistic and free zone services. The main shareholder of Piraeus Port Authority S.A., with a stake of 67 percent, is COSCO SHIPPING, one of the largest maritime companies in the world.

Over the last decade the company has experienced a remarkable growth in all port activities, which is still underway, largely contributing to the country’s economy, while driven by green development and increased digitalization, alongside a people-first approach and a spirit of giving back to the society.

PPA is a member of “ECO PORTS”, holds ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 50001:2018 Certifications, is included in the Athens Stock Exchange ESG index and is one of the “Most Sustainable Companies in Greece 2022”. For more information please visit: https://olp.gr