The Port of Ravenna, situated in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna Region, is a symbol of progressive logistics and sustainable freight practices. Organised by the Port of Ravenna Authority in collaboration with Gruppo SAPIR and Gruppo Federtrasporti and supported by the Emilia Romagna Region, the event of 23rd of April drew esteemed representatives from the European Commission, industry leaders, and stakeholders.
Ms Lorenza Badiello, Director of the Delegation of Emilian Romagna to the EU, underscored the role of greening freight for enhanced economic gain, aligning with the European Commission’s commitment to sustainable transport. Szymon Oscislowski from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport articulated the imperative of greening freight, echoing the Commission’s ambition for a transition towards zero-emission mobility and resilient logistics systems.
Highlighting the regional perspective, Andrea Corsini, Emilia Romagna’s Regional Minister for Mobility and Transport, Infrastructure, Tourism, and Commerce, outlined the priorities and challenges of the logistics system in Emilia-Romagna. Corsini emphasised the region’s commitment to fostering smart, interconnected logistics corridors and promoting sustainable practices.
A panel discussion, moderated by Godfried Smit, Secretary General of the European Shippers’ Council, delved into the developmental projects and initiatives at the Port of Ravenna. Mario Petrosino, Chief Operating Officer of the Port System Authority of the central-northern Adriatic Sea, outlined the ambitious development projects underway, including the Connect Europe Facility-funded MERIDIAN project aimed at enhancing port infrastructure and connectivity.
Riccardo Sabadini, President of Gruppo SAPIR, elucidated the terminals, services, and development projects spearheaded by SAPIR, emphasising the group’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in logistics operations. Fabrizio Ossani, General Coordinator of Gruppo Federtrasporti, unveiled an industrial plan for a multimodal transport logistics platform in the Ravenna Port, signaling a strategic commitment to bolster intermodal connectivity and bolster the region’s logistical prowess.
In closing, Secretary General Godfried Smit reaffirmed the stakeholder’s commitment to fostering partnerships for growth and prosperity in Europe’s logistic sector.