Traditionally, the parliamentary evening of the German Shipbuilding and Ocean Industries Association (VSM) took place in Berlin at the beginning of the year. The event at the Baden-Württemberg State Representation attracted almost 400 guests from the maritime industry, business, politics and administration - Friesland-Kabel was also in attendance once again.
Current and future challenges for the German shipbuilding and marine technology industry were discussed under the motto "Germany as a maritime location between geopolitics and transformation". The focus was on creating framework conditions to increase the competitiveness of the German shipbuilding industry in order to be a relevant strategic building block for security and resilience for Germany and Europe.
In his speech, Association President of VSM Harald Fassmer emphasized the importance of positive perspectives and strengths with reference to the current mood in Germany. "Because doing things well makes you much happier than talking things down!"
The guest speaker was Christian Dürr, Chairman of the FDP parliamentary group in the German Bundestag. He emphasized the indispensability of the maritime industry for Germany as a business location and announced good news. The "Climate-neutral ship" funding program will continue to be financed, with 30 million euros for 2024 and 36 million euros as a commitment authorization for the following years.
Photo ©VSM