“We live in an era of parallel, multi-layered, complex, and global challenges and crises. In this ever-changing, volatile environment, shipping is the global constant, the guarantor of livelihood, survival and well-being of the world’s citizens.” The words belong to the President of the Hellenic Shipowners’ Association, Melina Traylos, at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Costas Grammenos Center for Shipping, Trade and Finance.

“Shipping unites peoples, societies, and economies under any circumstances. This true dimension of shipping must be owned by all, by leaders and citizens alike. And its invisible role should be constantly understood and made more visible”, he continued: “As shipping people we need to understand this necessity and work and cooperate in this direction, always respecting the values and virtues of our industry.

Excellence, meritocracy, and extroversion, as Professor Grammenos has typically mentioned.”

As the President of the EEE pointed out, “In this particularly demanding mission, human capital is the driving force, but also the guardian of our sector… of its present and its future. Protecting and safeguarding shipping is the duty and responsibility of all of us. For us, the Shipping of the Greeks, it is also our duty as a maritime nation and as the seagoing, pioneering, leading shipping industry.”