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On 14-15 June 2024, the Members of the Baltic Assembly participated in the Plenary Session of the Benelux Parliament in the Hague and Rotterdam, the Netherlands. During the Session, the security of ports was discussed.
President of the Baltic Assembly Andrius Kupčinskas addressed the Benelux colleagues by informing them that the Baltic States are well known for their strong digital ecosystem. In recent years, the Baltic States have significantly developed their cybersecurity policies. The Baltic Assembly has also discussed digital cooperation and encouraged the governments to join activities for improving cybersecurity in the region.
“From the Hanseatic League times, the Baltic Sea and the crossing maritime traffic have always been strategic. However, the new strategic configuration after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and Finland and Sweden joining NATO, has put our region in particular geopolitical focus. Therefore, we would like to emphasize that maritime actors need a high level of preparedness and coordination as cyber threats are transnational and respect no borders. Our economic prosperity, national security, and stability depend on our ability to safeguard critical maritime assets from possible cyber threats. By engaging in international cooperation and sharing our best practices like today, we can build a more secure digital maritime landscape that would benefit us all,” Andrius Kupčinskas stated.
He also emphasized that the Russian war in Ukraine is far from over and that we do not have the luxury of getting tired: “This is the time to give Ukraine all the support it needs. We need to show Russia that we are not tired and will not forget our Ukrainian friends”.
During the Session, governmental representatives, representatives of port organizations and other experts shared their opinions on the challenges in the field of security in ports in the Benelux region. It was concluded that cooperation is essential to ensure security in ports, both physically and digitally, and that new rules and legislation need to be adapted. Afterwards, several recommendations were assessed, such as cycling, railways and the future of agriculture. Vice President of the Benelux Parliament Patricia Creutz also informed about her participation in the meetings of the Baltic Assembly, highlighting the important cooperation of both organizations and the shared goals in the fields of education and energy.
The delegation of the Baltic Assembly consisted of President Andrius Kupčinskas and Vice President Jānis Vucāns.
Photos
© Secretariat of the Baltic Assembly
