03/28/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/28/2026 07:34
Blue Economy: Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Maritime Growth in the Black Sea Region
The President of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB), Dr. Serhat Köksal, participated as a speaker at the Black Sea Blue Economy Summit 2026, held in Trabzon, on 26-28 March 2026.
The Summit brought together financial institutions, experts and entrepreneurs from Black Sea coastal countries to explore pathways for sustainable maritime growth and investment.
Speaking at the session titled "Blue Economy and Finance: Sustainable Investments and Global Partnerships", Dr. Köksal emphasized the Black Sea region's strong potential to evolve into a more connected, competitive, and sustainable economic basin.
In his remarks, the President stressed that the future of the region will depend not only on growth, but on the quality of that growth- highlighting the need for development that is inclusive, resilient and environmentally sustainable. He also highlighted the Black Sea's growing role in the energy transition, citing opportunities in offshore wind, green hydrogen, and energy connectivity, as well as the evolving role of ports as hubs for logistics, energy, and industrial transformation.
President Köksal also highlighted the importance of digitalization, stronger hinterland connections, and regional cooperation to enhance competitiveness and resilience. He noted that the Blue Economy represents a strategic development framework that integrates sustainability, economic growth, and social inclusion.
President Köksal reaffirmed BSTDB's commitment to working with public and private sector partners to support sustainable and inclusive growth across the Black Sea region.
At the conclusion of the session, Dr. Köksal received a commemorative plaque from Ambassador Merve Safa Kavakcı, First Deputy Secretary General of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), in recognition of his participation and contributions to the Summit.
Contact:
Haroula Christodoulou
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +30 2310 290533
Twitter: @BSTDB; @Haroulax