Page 69 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΣ 2024

European Commission President Ursula von der Ley- tion of products and services that are key to Europe's
en’s recent proposal about the assumption of the cohesion and competitiveness. At the heart of trans-
Sustainable Transport and Tourism and the Oceans port are shipping and maritime transport, which play
and Fisheries portfolios by Αpostolos Tzitzikostas and a key role in Europe. Thus, the substantial upgrading
Costas Kadis respectively for the next five years was of European tourism policy, as well as its connection
a source of great optimism and satisfaction for the with transport, is a very important first achievement.
maritime communities of the Mediterranean. “The European Union sends a very strong message
Although the final selection will be determined by that it has a comprehensive and integrated approach
the relevant committees and the plenary of the Euro- to development, focusing on strategic investments in
pean Parliament, von der Leyen's proposal highlights key infrastructure, green transport, and sustainable
the important role that Greece and Cyprus play in tourism development, improving daily life and qual-
Europe's maritime and shipping industry. ity of life and bringing Europe closer to its citizens”,
Apostolos Tzitzikostas will take on an expanded port- stated Mr Tzitzikostas.
folio compared to his predecessor, Romanian Com- It is the first time a Greek Commissioner has been
missioner Adina Vălean, as President Ursula von der chosen for the transport portfolio since 1981 when
Leyen will place emphasis on sustainability in trans- George Kontogiorgis was appointed Commissioner
port and tourism development. “It is a great honour of Transport, Fisheries and Tourism.
and responsibility to be awarded the portfolios of Cyprus’ Costas Kadis was appointed Commissioner
Sustainable Transport and Tourism by the President for Oceans and Fisheries, taking on a more focused
of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen”, portfolio with a stronger emphasis on oceans and
said the new EU Transport Commissioner. fisheries compared to his predecessor, Virginijus
Transport is the backbone of Europe, having geostra- Sinkevičius.
tegic importance for critical sectors such as trade, It is worth mentioning that an important position
energy, and networking. At the same time, it ensures has been assumed by Greek MEP Eliza Vozemberg,
free access, movement, and interconnection between who was elected by her colleagues as Chair of the
citizens and regions, which is a fundamental right Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) in the
within the European Union. European Parliament. She is the first Greek MEP to
Most importantly, transport is essential in the circula- be elected to this position.

69