International Maritime Congress Summary – “Szczecin Declaration” in the European Commission

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By Marek Grzybowski

International Maritime Congress The Program Council officially summarized the work of all thematic groups in the Szczecin-Świnoujście Seaport Authority on July 4, 2025. The conclusions from the debates and meetings were officially handed over to Arkadiusz Marchewka, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure. The report of the Program Council International Maritime Congress includes expert conclusions, summarizing the debates and discussions that took place in Szczecin on May 15 and 16.

The International Maritime Congress clearly outlined the directions that should become a priority for the maritime policy of Poland and the European Union. Economy, seaports infrastructure safety and security, energy,  education and innovation – these are the areas where fast, coordinated and long-term actions are needed. Poland has the potential to be a leader of maritime transformation in Europe – however, the condition is the determination and cooperation of all stakeholders.

The Maritime Congress in Szczecin was part of the activities of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council, responding with its theme to the presidency’s slogan: Security, Europe – said Arkadiusz Marchewka, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure.

– We emphasized that the maritime economy, including ports, is not only Poland’s economic security, but also military and energy security – emphasized Minister Marchewka.

During the Congress, an informal meeting of EU and EFTA maritime ministers took place in Szczecin, organized as part of the Polish presidency of the EU Council. Deputy Minister Arkadiusz Marchewka opened the plenary session and chaired the debate under the slogan: “Towards a competitive and resilient maritime Europe”.

The ceremonial handover of the Szczecin Declaration to the representative of the European Commission, Fotini Ioannidou from DG MOVE (Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport of the European Commission) took place on 15 May 2025.

The “Szczecin Declaration” was signed by representatives of ministries from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, France, Greece, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Latvia, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary and Italy. The Szczecin Declaration contains the most important postulates for: the development of the European shipbuilding industry, ensuring financing for the development of maritime industries, modifying the rules of public aid and strengthening the strategic role of maritime transport in the EU, supporting innovation in the blue economy.

The most important conclusions and recommendations of the Programme Board of the International Maritime Congress in Szczecin:

Development of a competitive maritime industry in Poland and the EU (taking into account the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy)

The need to strengthen the competitiveness of the maritime industry in the EU through a system of financial incentives, support for low-emission shipping, simplification of financing rules and development of autonomous technologies. It is also crucial to take into account the needs of the defence sector and ensure access to alternative fuels within the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy.

Polish Offshore Wind Energy Sector – legislative and institutional framework for the development of the sector

The development of the offshore wind energy sector in Poland requires the adoption of a comprehensive strategy, simplification of administrative procedures and strengthening the involvement of public institutions. Support for domestic production – including shipyards and logistics – and the appointment of a central coordinator of government activities in the area of ​​offshore wind energy are also crucial.

Seaports 2060 – 3D strategy and new industrial functions

Conclusions from the Congress indicate the need for a long-term approach to the development of seaports in Poland, based on the 3D concept – decarbonization, digitalization and strengthening of defense functions. A comprehensive strategy is crucial to ensuring competitive and predictable conditions for the further development of ports as strategic nodes for the economy and security of the state.

Strategic strengthening of small ports – logistics, service, local development

The need to prepare a development program for small ports, taking into account their role in logistics and offshore wind energy service.

Human capital for the maritime economy – education, development and inclusiveness

Ensuring competitive working conditions, adapting the education system to the needs of a modern maritime economy and actively supporting research and innovation are the foundations for building a strong, sustainable and inclusive maritime sector in Poland. It is crucial to develop cooperation between science and industry, promote maritime professions among various social groups and create flexible career paths and retraining that will respond to dynamic changes in the labor market.

Green energy for the blue economy – directions for sustainable development of the maritime sector

Sustainable development of the maritime sector requires coordinated actions at the national and European level. Integration of actions through a common European platform, simplification of investment procedures for green infrastructure in ports and creation of a national alternative fuel strategy are of key importance. These are the foundations of energy transformation, which will increase the competitiveness of the maritime economy and its resilience to climate challenges.