Make it happen: Register now for the ESPO Conference 2018 in Rotterdam
29 March 2018
The European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) is inviting its members, policy makers and stakeholders to join the 15th edition of its annual conference, which will be hosted by the Port of Rotterdam. The event will take place on 31 May and 1 June 2018 in the Onderzeebootloods.
Why you shouldn’t miss this event:
“Investing in the port of tomorrow”: What are the main drivers for ports to invest? How to match long investment processes with the rapidly changing supply chain needs? Can port authorities drive the change or are they driven by changes? How to build a strong case for further port development? Which are the most appropriate sources of investment to ensure that European ports can continue to play their role as gateways for trade and primary nodes in the logistic chain, as clusters of energy and industry and as major partners on the way towards a carbon-free economy and society? These are the main issues to be discussed during this two-day conference.
Inspiring speakers: every year, the ESPO conference succeeds at having a quite impressive line-up of both high level and “off the beaten track” speakers and experts who enter into debate with the ports. This 15th edition already features a strong list of confirmed speakers and there is yet more to come.
A hands-on conference: The ESPO Conferences are not just about getting inspiration, they also aim at gathering intelligence and concrete information on what is really at stake at EU policy level. This year’s conference will come two days after the publication of the new Connecting Europe Facility proposal, the financial framework for support for transport and port investments. It will offer a unique opportunity to hear more about the proposal and to discuss it with one of its architects, DG MOVE’s Director Herald Ruijters, the TEN-T coordinators and Members of the European Parliament. Moreover, Representatives of INEA and EIB will give an overview of do’s and don’ts when applying for support for investments.
Everyone is there! ESPO conferences offer unique network opportunities for everyone who works in, around or with ports. Throughout the conference, delegates will have the opportunity to network and will be invited to a very exclusive conference dinner in the remarkable historic setting of the Laurens Church. With more than 150 port managers, it is a unique opportunity to reach out to the port and maritime sector.
Ever had a conference in a submarine hall? This year’s conference is taking place in the recently renovated Onderzeebootloods (see picture), an impressive hall where submarines slipped off the ramp in earlier days. The hall has retained its raw and industrial character and is situated in the middle of the port, on the Maas river side. No better way to life the real port experience!
Roos & van de Werk.jpg)
Onderzeebootloods, RDM © Roos & Van de Werk
The new Capital of Cool: The 2018 conference is taking place in Europe’s new capital of cool, the city that “makes it happen”, Rotterdam. If you love architecture, Rotterdam is definitely worth while a visit. In the city centre, historic buildings and characteristic post-war reconstruction architecture clash cheerfully with the hypermodern skyscrapers built in more recent decades. Rotterdam has also a rich cultural life. Renowned museums, art institutions and galleries display the most controversial art, both old and new. Outdoors, you also come across the most beautiful artworks and graffiti.
The Port of Rotterdam: Our host, the Port of Rotterdam will undoubtedly do everything possible to live to its reputation as Europe’s biggest port. Last year, the port reached a new record with 467 million tonnes, over 40% more than 15 years ago when it hosted the first ESPO conference. Nowadays, Rotterdam is very much engaged in the transition to sustainable energy and is committed to digitalisation in order to make the port and the supply chain more efficient.
Have we forgotten any other good reason not to miss this event? Tell us (helene.vancompernolle@espo.be) and we will spread the news.
Book your seat now online and be part of this unique ESPO Conference edition!
Programme and practical information: www.espo-conference.com
Registration: https://www.registration-espo2018.eu/
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