The Federation of Greek Shipping Enterprises (HELMEPA) sent a high-ranking delegation of 15 member companies to Washington for their annual meeting with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). This meeting, held on March 4, included discussions on a long-standing cooperation aimed at improving maritime environmental protection, ship safety, and compliance with regulations governing foreign-flagged vessels in U.S. waters.

Key topics at the meeting included the results of Port State Control inspections, safety concerns, fire protection systems, and the handling of hazardous cargoes, particularly lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles transported by container ships. Cybersecurity and ballast water management were also significant points of discussion, along with the enforcement of the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA), STS operations, and the QUALSHIP 21 program that recognizes high-quality ships operated by U.S. and foreign companies.

Additionally, the USCG provided updates on collaborative efforts under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the new U.S. Maritime Action Plan, and developments concerning the growth of the maritime industry to ensure environmental sustainability. This annual engagement underscores the importance of international cooperation in maritime security and environmental stewardship, particularly as regulations evolve to meet new challenges in the shipping industry.