European Transport Ministers have adopted a ministerial declaration for the EU’s maritime transport policy, which draws upon digitalisation, decarbonisation and competitiveness.
The declaration, known as the Valletta Declaration, underlines the important foundations for a future shipping strategy in the EU. Digital shipping is becoming more present in the industry and this declaration aims to underline how digitalisation can increase efficiency and logistic chains.
A digital transformation of the government is to be part of the strategy. Simplifying administrative formalities and interoperable digital information flows is a principal concern to creating a transport space without barriers, according to the report.
The use of big data and data sharing is a significant part of the EU’s future shipping strategy. Automated systems to reduce fuel consumption, increase efficiency and logistics flows and enhance environmental performance of shipping will be assisted with data sharing that can be done digitally.
The declaration highlights the importance of enabling further development of digital and advanced solutions and technologies. Specifically, an up-to-date legal framework is required to enable the development of these digital solutions.
The declaration also addresses the Paris Agreement and invites member states and the commission to support capacity building and foster research in developing countries to help meet ambitious climate change targets.
Aligning the EU Monitoring, Reporting and Verification regulation with an international agreement and sharing data is also urged in the declaration.
Following the publication of the Declaration, President of the European Community Shipowners’ Association Niels Smedegaard used a video message to congratulate the Maltese Presidency for the initiative. He said the declaration is fundamental to prepare the EU shipping strategy for the next decade.
“Digitalisation is rightly identified as a key priority. From a technological point of view it should be very easy to establish a genuine European Single Window. We just need the political will to do it. Let’s not lose the momentum we now have by backtracking on the level of ambition”, he said.
The Valletta Declaration was adopted at the end of a two-day ministerial stakeholder conference organised by the Maltese Presidency of the EU.
The Valletta declaration can be read here
Fathom-News
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