Greek Shipowners Back Panama and Liberia Proposal Ahead of IMO Talks

The Union of Greek Shipowners has for the first time voiced support for a decarbonisation proposal put forward by Panama and Liberia ahead of the next round of IMO negotiations. Union president Melina Travlos described the approach as a balanced and pragmatic foundation that accounts for the affordability, availability and scalability of alternative fuels. The endorsement comes as the IMO prepares for intersessional meetings in September and November aimed at building convergence around a global decarbonisation measure.

 

The Union's Endorsement

 

The Union of Greek Shipowners has taken a clear position. It voiced support for a proposal from Panama and Liberia. This marked the first time it backed the proposal. The endorsement relates to shipping's decarbonisation efforts. It comes ahead of upcoming IMO negotiations.

The union framed the proposal as a workable basis. Its president described it as balanced and pragmatic. She said it provides a foundation for continuing dialogue. However, she noted it leaves room for further improvement. This positions the endorsement as qualified support.

 

Why the Proposal Was Backed

 

The union cited specific merits in the proposal. It takes into account several critical parameters. These include the affordability of the required fuels. Availability and scalability of these fuels are also considered. These factors are central to the union's support.

The proposal's treatment of efficiency was particularly valued. It recognises the role of ship energy efficiency. This contributes to reducing emissions across the sector. This matters while suitable fuels remain unavailable or costly. The union highlighted this as a key strength.

 

The Negotiation Context

 

The endorsement comes at a critical juncture. The IMO will hold an intersessional meeting in early September. A second meeting will follow in November. These precede a key committee meeting known as MEPC 85. The aim is to resolve concerns and build convergence.

The union weighed multiple proposals in this context. Japan's proposal also acknowledges the key parameters. However, the union focused on the Panama-Liberia option. Earlier, it had declined to state a preference. This endorsement now clarifies its position.

 

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Criticism of the Existing Framework

 

The union expressed reservations about the current approach. It reiterated that the IMO Net-Zero Framework is not the solution. It said negotiations had revealed significant weaknesses. These weaknesses relate to the framework's current form. This criticism underpins the union's search for alternatives.

The union stressed the need for industry involvement. It argued the voice of shipping must be meaningfully heard. Shipping is the sector that will implement these measures. The green transition cannot succeed without industry involvement. This reflects a call for practical, industry-informed policy.

 

Call for a Unified Framework

 

The union advocated for a single global framework. It called for one functional and workable framework. This should be adopted by the IMO as the regulatory body. The shipping industry has consistently supported this approach. A unified framework is central to the union's position.

The union emphasised practical outcomes over theory. Its president said progress is defined by what can be achieved. This should be guided by the common good. The goal is meaningful decarbonisation in practice. This pragmatic emphasis runs throughout the union's stance.

 

The Urgency and Commitment

 

The union stressed the urgency of the challenge. It pointed to climate change and extreme weather events. It recognised shipping's role in addressing emissions. The industry remains committed to meaningful contribution. This commitment frames its engagement with the negotiations.

The union balanced ambition with realism. It cited ongoing investment in energy efficiency and technologies. However, it argued targets must remain realistic. They must reflect technological capabilities and market realities. Otherwise, undue burdens could result without environmental benefits.