The 16th Hydra Shipping Conference, organized for the 16th consecutive year by the Hydriots’ Association of Athens, came to a successful close, once again bringing together the elite of Greek shipping. Komvos played a prominent role, supporting the conference and helping to lay the groundwork for deeper future collaboration. Three of its members participated in key panels, underscoring Komvos’ role as a bridge between science, strategy, and business in the maritime sector.
Prof. Georges Prevelakis, Founding Member of Komvos, served as a keynote speaker in the panel titled “Geopolitics in Shipping”. Drawing on his extensive experience in international relations and geopolitics, he emphasized the critical role shipping has played in global challenges over the centuries. His intervention sparked discussion on how geopolitical developments directly affect the maritime sector, a topic central to Komvos’ initiatives.
Costis Stambolis, Corresponding Member of Komvos, was a keynote speaker in the panel “Future Energy Trends and Geopolitical Implications.” He highlighted the decisive role of energy in current geopolitical and economic developments and discussed the challenges posed by the energy transition for shipping. He also stressed the importance of adapting the sector to stricter environmental requirements and gradually integrating sustainability criteria into financing strategies and new ship development.
Harris Antoniou, Founder and CEO of Neptune Leasing Financing, Founding Member and Treasurer of the Komvos Board, and Coordinator of Komvos’ “Shipping and ESG” initiative, connected and analyzed topics raised in previous panels. After a brief reference to Komvos, he presented both the challenges and emerging opportunities in maritime financing. These trends are being addressed by Komvos’ “Shipping and ESG” initiative, which aims to establish a shipping hub and fund focused on ESG and innovation.
The 16th Hydra Shipping Conference concluded with positive feedback from participants, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and the development of collaborations within the maritime sector. The flawless organization and warm hospitality of the hosts were key to the conference’s success, while discussions opened new prospects and proposals for the future of Greek shipping.
Special thanks to the President of the Hydriots’ Association of Athens, Mr. Sachinis, for the excellent organization and the hospitality extended to the delegates at his residence, one of Hydra’s most historic buildings.
The conference program can be accessed here.
Komvos’ main sponsor is Piraeus Bank, contributing decisively to the realization of its vision.
