[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Vancouver International Maritime Centre (VIMC) hosted a major event in Athens during Posidonia 2016 — on the evening of June 8. More than 250 industry professionals attended this reception, which was co-hosted by the VIMC, the Embassy of Canada and the Hellenic Canadian Chamber of Commerce at Vorres Museum, Paiania. Senior Trade Commissioner David Mallette, representing the Embassy of Canada, opened the event.
One of the highlights of the evening was the signing of a bilateral agreement by the VIMC and the Department of Shipping, Trade and Transport of the University of the Aegean to develop faculty and student exchange programmes, as well as marine-related training initiatives between Greece and Canada. 
“The University of the Aegean, Department of Shipping, Trade and Transport is a well-known international academic department based on the shipping island of Chios, one of six islands in the Greek Archipelago where the University has campuses. We have more than sixteen undergraduate programs, multiple postgraduate programs and over 16,000 students,” said Professor
Helen Thanopoulou, Head of the Department of Shipping, Trade and Transport at the university.
“Young people are our future, and strong, international programmes that cross boundaries will enhance education and training for upcoming global leaders,” said Kaity Arsoniadis-Stein, Executive Director of the VIMC.
During Posidonia, the VIMC showcased the economic, business and lifestyle advantages of Vancouver, Canada, to shipping leaders looking to expand their reach to North American and Asian markets.
“Posidonia is one of the most important shipping conferences in the world, and Greece is the largest ship-owning nation. It is crucial that Vancouver and Canada make it known that we are open for business,” said Graham Clarke, Chairman and CEO of the VIMC.
Maritime Matrix Today and The Marex Bulletin are the only Indian media featuring this event.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
