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PPA S.A.: Welcoming Ceremony of “Yuan Hai Kou”

The Port of Piraeus hosted a high-level ceremony on 24 June, 2025, to mark the arrival of the “Yuan Hai Kou,” one of the world’s largest and most advanced vehicle carriers, operated by COSCO SHIPPING Specialized Carriers, is 199.9 m long, has a capacity of 7,000 ceu and will be used on a regular line connecting China with the Mediterranean. The vessel is equipped with dual LNG and solar propulsion systems, underscores a growing shift in the maritime sector towards decarbonization and sustainable innovation.
Senior figures from the Greek government, Chinese diplomatic corps and international shipping community, alongside representatives of relevant organizations attended the event. Speakers highlighted the strategic role of the Port of Piraeus in the global supply chain and reaffirmed their commitment to a sustainable future in maritime transport. Αn exclusive tour was provided in the ship's interior for high-ranking government officials and representatives of the shipping community.
Greece’s Deputy Minister for Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Mr. Stefanos Gikas, highlighted the strategic importance of Piraeus in enhancing port competitiveness through a comprehensive ESG-led approach. “In this landscape of continuous development and responsible growth, the arrival of the ‘Yuan Hai Kou’ symbolizes a new chapter in shipping. Green shipping is gradually moving from theory to practice. As we face the challenge of green transition and decarbonization, we must work together to achieve tangible and lasting results,” he said.
Chinese Ambassador to Greece, Mr. Fang Qiu, framed the event as a symbol of deepening bilateral ties. “Piraeus is more than a commercial port - it is a platform of friendship, mutual trust and shared vision. “Technological cooperation and environmental responsibility are the foundations of a strategic relationship that continues to evolve and grow stronger,” he noted.
Deputy Regional Governor of Piraeus, Ms. Stavroula Antonakou, recognized the port’s crucial role in the broader regional development: “The growth of the Port of Piraeus into a global hub for cargo and passenger transport is a core objective of the Region of Attica’s administration. PPA S.A. has our full support in building a dynamic future for Piraeus and establishing it as the largest port in Southeastern Europe.”

Speaking on behalf of COSCO SHIPPING, Mr. Zhang Wei, Chairman of COSCO SHIPPING Specialized Carriers, emphasized the firm’s broader vision for emissions reduction and operational transformation. “The Yuan Hai Kou is the result of years of investment and engineering,” he said. “It represents our commitment to net-zero operations, green innovation, and redefined industry standards. Selecting Piraeus for its maiden voyage reflects the port’s strategic position in Europe and our trust in its long-term partnership.”
Antonis Venieris, President of the International Maritime Union in Greece, closed the official proceedings by calling on Greek shipping to lead the industry’s green transformation. “With vessels like the Yuan Hai Kou, technology and environmental stewardship converge,” he said. “The Port of Piraeus, as the centre of our maritime ecosystem, has both the privilege and the responsibility to drive this transition.”
In his statement, Mr. Su Xudong described the vessel’s maiden call as “a historic moment” for the port. “The arrival of the ‘Yuan Hai Kou’ at the Port of Piraeus clearly demonstrates that our port is constantly evolving, embracing sustainability, innovation, and forward-thinking”.
The arrival of the Yuan Hai Kou, one of the world’s most advanced green vehicle carriers, alongside the Piraeus Port 2025 Summer Reception, marks more than a ceremonial milestone - it signals the start of a bold new chapter for Greece’s largest port, defined by innovation, sustainability, and strategic global relevance. In a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by the green transition, tech-enabled logistics, and deepening international partnerships, the Port of Piraeus is reaffirming its role as a key force for progress in the maritime sector. Guided by a clear long-term vision, the Piraeus Port Authority is positioning itself at the forefront of the industry’s next wave - driving initiatives that fuse environmental responsibility with smart infrastructure and future-ready operations.
Today’s event reflects not just momentum, but intent. With Greece and the Port of Piraeus increasingly recognized as critical nodes in the global supply chain, this moment sets the stage for expanded maritime innovation, ESG leadership, and sustained international collaboration.