Maritime top meeting about security and preparedness
On Thursday, March 7th, we rolled off Ocean Summit for the third time with our contribution partner, Maritimt Forum Nordvest.
This maritime top meeting is an important arena for GCE Blue Maritime to meet the local cluster members and bring them together with politicians from Møre og Romsdal. It was a good opportunity for our new CEO, Pierre Major, to introduce himself to local actors and politicians.
Business leaders, organizations, and politicians embarked on an exciting boat trip from Mjølstadneset to Finnøy via Ålesund. Discussions during the journey revolved around relevant topics such as security and preparedness.
Economical trends
The crew of Finnøya Bryggehotell warmly welcomed the participants at Finnøya. Elise Fiske, the CEO of Maritimt Forum Nordvest, introduced a diverse program consisting of several engaging lectures, panel discussions, and a visit to a local museum and liquor store near the hotel.
During the day, several speakers shared their insights with us. Kristian Tafjord from Sparebanken Møre updated us on the latest economic trends and the status of the regional business sector. Nils Nordstrand, Deputy branch head Capability development Norwegian Navy, discussed the interaction between the maritime industry and the Norwegian Armed Forces' needs and expectations.
Ocean Summit 2024 was a starting point for preparing the region for defense and preparedness.
Focus on national and geopolitical perspectives
Even Aas, Executive Vice President of Communication, Public Affairs, and Sustainability, in Kongsberg, shared his thoughts on the current uncertain geopolitical situation and what Norway can expect in the years to come on a global level. Yard director Ronny Langset from VARD pointed out the strategic value of the maritime industry in a defense context. The presentations were followed by an engaging panel discussion with politicians Geir Inge Lien (SP) and Åse Kristin Ask Bakke (AP), who provided insights into current government politics.
Ocean Summit 2024 will be remembered as a starting point for preparing the region for total defense and preparedness. Politicians were encouraged to prioritize the local maritime industry as a key factor in preparedness on their political agenda.