Page 69 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2023

cent between 2021 and 2022, reaching $46.0 industry leaders from all over the world, was an
billion, or 1.1 per cent of the GDP, the highest ideal platform for Cruise Lines International
level since 1960. In addition, a new national Association (CLIA to address the major topics,
security strategy published in 2022 sets out challenges and opportunities that will shape the
ambitious plans to increase Japan’s military industry’s agenda in coming years.
capability over the coming decade in response The Forum held on 25-26 April in Thessaloniki
to perceived growing threats from China, North at a pivotal moment for Greece, whose role in
Korea and Russia. the safe resumption of cruising creates a unique
“Japan is undergoing a profound shift in its mil- opportunity for the country to optimise its posi-
itary policy,”’ said Xiao Liang, Researcher with tion on the global cruise map.
SIPRI’s Military Expenditure and Arms Produc- The Forum was opened by a keynote speech
tion Programme. “The post-war restraints Japan delivered by Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, Global
imposed on its military spending and military Chairman of CLIA and Executive Chairman of
capabilities seem to be loosening,” he added. MSC Cruises. In the keynote, Mr Vago revealed
an action plan for sustainable growth that
emphasised the need to invest in infrastructure
PASSENGER to maintain smooth operations and enhance the
attractiveness of Greece as a cruise hub.
SHIPPING “Greece is an important cruise hub in the Medi-
terranean, with great potential for further growth.
Having developed its homeporting capabilities,
the priority now is for ports, cruise operators and
CRUISE INDUSTRY HERALDS GREECE’S authorities to work together to create the right
ROLE AS AN IMPORTANT CRUISE HUB infrastructure and operating environment for
As the international cruise sector continues its the long-term”, said Mr Vago during his keynote
2023 positive growth trajectory, the 7th Posido- speech that opened the Forum today.
nia Sea Tourism Forum, which brought together The key actions proposed are working together

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