Recognition of maritime transport as a contributor to Europe’s economy
CLIA Europe, the association representing Europe’s cruise industry, welcomes the priorities of the Latvian EU Presidency, particularly the aim of achieving a more competitive Europe, in line with the objectives of the new European Commission.
CLIA Europe shares the view that more growth and jobs can only be achieved by enhancing the competitiveness of industry and related service sectors.
The cruise industry particularly welcomes the recognition of maritime transport as an “important long-term contributor to Europe’s economy”. The cruise industry alone generated almost 40 billion in output last year and sustaining more than 339,000 jobs across Europe.
Robert Ashdown, Secretary General of CLIA Europe, commented:
“CLIA Europe strongly supports the priorities of the new Latvian EU Presidency. As a key part of the European maritime industry, we welcome the aim to secure the right international environment for maritime transport and promote all the initiatives facilitating growth and enhancing competitive European shipping.
“We also welcome the recognition of the economic dimension of the visa policy. We look forward to working with the Latvian Presidency on the Visa Code review, hoping that substantial progress will be achieved in the next six months.Europe’s position as the world’s number one tourist destination must not be taken for granted. A smarter visa policy would attract more tourists to Europe, leading to more trade, investment and jobs.“
The cruise industry is ready to play its part in achieving a more competitive Europe, and looks forward to working with the Latvian EU Presidency to help the maritime sector develop and prosper as a long-term contributor to Europe’s economy.
Source: CLIA
