The European Commission has presented a package of measures aimed at strengthening the security of European ports. The communication stresses that as key entry and exit points, they are particularly vulnerable to both external threats and the activities of organised crime groups, BTA reports.
The Commission intends to review the current legislation in the field of maritime security and propose the introduction of background checks for port workers. According to data, ports are the backbone of the European economy, providing around 74% of the EU's external trade. Over 3.4 billion tonnes of cargo and nearly 395 million passengers pass through them each year, as well as energy supplies and security and defence-related activities.
Among the planned initiatives are the development of guidelines on foreign ownership of port infrastructure, as well as measures for energy transition through electrification and better connectivity to logistics networks.
The proposals also cover the development of high-tech shipbuilding, the production of vessels to service offshore renewable energy parks and the creation of underwater drones. Also included is an expansion of the capacity for the production of naval equipment, as well as the construction of ferries with a possible dual purpose - civil and military.