On 21 and 22 April, the Western Ligurian Sea Port Authority hosted in Genoa the ESPO (European Seaport Organisation) Intermodal and Logistics Committee meeting, bringing together delegates from a broad cross-section of Europe’s leading ports, including Rotterdam, Marseilles, La Spezia, Barcelona, Hamburg, Algeciras, Le Havre and Amsterdam.
Set against the striking backdrop of Palazzo San Giorgio, the historic headquarters of the port authority, discussions focused on key issues shaping the European port sector. Central to the agenda were the EU Ports Strategy and updates on preparations for the next EU budget framework (MFF 2028-2034), both seen as pivotal in guiding the organisation’s plan of action and dialogue with the public institutions.
Rail transport also featured prominently, with members examining cooperation between ESPO and the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), alongside the proposed Regulation on railway capacity.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) contributed to the proceedings by outlining its capacity-building programme for port authorities. The initiative is designed to boost institutional, technical and financial expertise across the ports located along the TEN-T network. It aims to support ports in investment planning and project preparation through advisory services spanning technical, financial, environmental and procedural domains. The programme also provides guidance on accessing funding, assistance throughout application and evaluation phases, and promotes know-how amongst stakeholders.
The agenda featured a guided boat tour of the Port of Genoa’s wide range of cargo and passenger terminal facilities, and an overview of the 3.6 billion euro infrastructure investment programme underway, including a visit to the construction site of the new breakwater and the recently completed control tower.
