The European Union faces significant challenges in greening the economy while maintaining prosperity. Geopolitical tensions and global competition demand a robust Europe that collaborates to reduce dependencies on other regions. The Port of Rotterdam, a globally connected hub for containers, energy, and raw materials, plays a pivotal role in this effort. With the European elections approaching from June 6 to 9, Deltalinqs and the Port of Rotterdam organized a debate on this topic with candidate Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).
Representatives from BBB, CDA, ChristenUnie, D66, GroenLinks-PvdA, NSC, SGP, Volt, and VVD participated in the debate aboard the SS Rotterdam. Candidates and party leaders discussed pressing issues for the port, including the need to improve the investment climate, the importance of accessibility, and the sustainability of transport, such as the modal shift. They also highlighted the significance of stimulating and competitive regulations for the energy and raw materials transition.
Deltalinqs Chairman Victor van der Chijs and Port of Rotterdam CEO Boudewijn Siemons kicked off the debate. Each round was introduced by a short video featuring a local entrepreneur who provided context for the issue at hand. The importance of Europe for the port’s future was widely emphasized, with repeated calls for increased contact between the port and MEPs. The debate attracted many interested stakeholders from the port area, Brussels, and The Hague.
Throughout the discussions, candidates underscored the critical role of the European Union in supporting the Port of Rotterdam. They stressed that collaboration between local and European policymakers is essential to maintaining the port as a logistic hub and a model of sustainability. The upcoming European elections will be crucial in shaping the future of this vital sector.
