The 4^th Session of Polish-German Mixed Commission for Maritime Transport in Gdansk

29.10.2004

On October 26-27 this year Gdansk hosted the 4^th Session of Polish-German Mixed Commission for Maritime Transport. Taking part in the proceedings were representatives of the maritime departments in Germany and Poland, port authorities, shipowners and organizations. The German delegation was headed by General Director of Civil Aviation and Shipping Dr Hans-Juergen Froboese, whilst on behalf of Poland - Director of the Maritime Transport Department at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Ms. Janina Mentrak.

The session provided the opportunity to exchange experience and ideas between the Polish and German delegates. The scope of areas discussed at the meeting covered, among the others, commercial exchange between Poland and Germany implemented by sea, promoting of short sea shipping, issues regarding the compliance of national laws and contracts vis-a-vis the European legal regulations, as well as EU projects supporting the development of maritime transport.

On the fist session day, the delegates received an invitation extended by the Port of Gdansk Authority SA to a solemn dinner reception at a Gdansk-based restaurant boasting grand traditions and situated in the Old Town. The invitation was also accepted by the Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Mr. Witold Gorski. Playing host to the event was Development and Infrastructure Director of the Port of Gdansk Authority SA Mr. Ryszard Wocial.

The proceedings of the Commission progressed in a most friendly atmosphere. During the talks, it was repeatedly mentioned that the both maritime economies share strong common interests and they both meet with similar problems. The delegates unanimously agreed on their vision concerning the development directions of further cooperation, which allows to cherish hopes of a favourable expansion of the Polish-German liaison in the field of maritime transport. Remarked on the venue of the meeting, the German visitors emphasized the significance of Gdansk in the common history of the both nations and their relations with the sea, and also their admiration for the beauty of the Old Town.