On 6 June 2018, Constanta Maritime Ports Administration and Pro Danube International together with MEP Ana-Claudia Tapardel organized the third edition of the “Danube Transport Day” in the European Parliament, an edition dedicated to the promotion of Port of Constanta as multimodal logistics hub being essential for regional development and as strategic partner of the Danube river ports.

The event brought together representatives from the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Danube States, high level industry leaders, as well as more than 70 experts and stakeholders with a dedicated interest in Danube navigation and in the development of Constanta port.

Manfred Seitz, General Secretary of Pro Danube International, has raised the awareness towards the important role the port of Constanta for the Danube ports and the overall IWT sector. According to Mr Seitz, "Danube waterways can provide efficient logistics solutions both in terms of costs and from an environmental perspective, which will improve the competitive situation of many industries that seek access to the Black Sea, Caspian and Middle East markets, with Constanta port as the optimal link between Europe and Asia.” Mr Seitz introduced the strategic project “DAPhNE – Danube Ports Network” receiving funding from the Danube Transnational Programme. The permanent cooperation platform of the Danube ports will become operational as of July 2018 and its activities shall focus on 3 main intervention directions such as (i) greening& climate change adaption, (ii) innovation & digitalization, (iii) supporting regulatory framework & port governance.

The event was marked by the conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Maritime Ports Administration Constanta and Port of Anaklia from Georgia. Its signature has laid the foundation for an effective partnership and collaboration between the two ports, emphasizing the importance of developing traffic between Constanta port and Georgian ports by revitalizing direct connections between Romania and Georgia and be part of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative.

The event was broadcasted live on CaleaEuropeana.ro, a multimedia platform promoting EU policies & strategies. The recording can be accessed at: http://www.caleaeuropeana.ro/eurodeputatul-claudia-tapardel-declaratii-dupa-conferinta-port-of-constanta-multimodal-hub-for-regional-development-and-strategic-partner-of-danube-ports-trebuie-intreprinse-toate-masurile-necesa/

Press release about the event can be found here.