Mikki Koskinen has been elected president of ECSA, emphasizing the importance of European shipping for security and sustainability.
Mikki Koskinen of Finland has been elected president of the European Community Shipowners' Associations (ECSA) for a two-year term, as reported by the Cyprus Mail.
Koskinen succeeds Karin Orsel, who has led ECSA since January 2024. He noted that the organization has evolved over six decades into a strategic partner for European institutions, promoting competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation in the shipping sector.
He described European shipping as a cornerstone of food, energy, and supply chain security, while warning of challenges posed by the energy transition, geopolitical uncertainty, and protectionism. Koskinen called for bold leadership and collective action to maintain a strong, unified voice.
Cyprus, which heavily relies on shipping for trade and energy, aligns closely with ECSA's priorities. Local shipowners have actively contributed to discussions on decarbonization, competitiveness, and the EU maritime strategy amid global pressures.
ECSA vice-president Nikolas Veniamis emphasized that shipping is critical to Europe's prosperity, noting that 76 percent of EU external trade moves by sea. He stressed the need for competitiveness and cooperation with policymakers, pledging to work alongside Koskinen and ECSA members to leverage the sector's potential.
Koskinen has been the managing director of ESL Shipping since 2013 and previously led Meriaura Oy. He has served on the boards of the International Chamber of Shipping and Arctia Oy, and has chaired the Finnish Shipowners' Association.
Veniamis is the CEO of Golden Union Shipping and Starboard Shipping and Trading. He serves on the boards of the Union of Greek Shipowners, Hellenic War Risks, and West of England P&I Clubs, and has been an ECSA board member since 2011.
