The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA), Port of Antwerp-Bruges International and APEC Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center have signed a new cooperation agreement to strengthen collaboration on port development, knowledge exchange and resilience.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the Ukrainian Recovery Conference on 25 June in the presence of Flemish Minister-President Matthias Diependaele.
The agreement focuses on improving maritime transport links and logistics corridors between Ukraine and Belgium. It also promotes cooperation in port management, operational efficiency, competitiveness, safety and environmental protection.
The partners will exchange expertise on the modernisation and reconstruction of port infrastructure. They will also explore potential investments and public-private partnerships.
The agreement places particular emphasis on strengthening the resilience of Ukrainian ports. USPA currently manages seven of Ukraine’s 14 ports, while the remaining seven are located in occupied territories.
As part of the partnership, APEC Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center will organise training programmes, workshops and study visits for USPA staff.
“With this agreement, we want to play an active role in shaping the future of Ukrainian ports,” said Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International. He added that the partnership will support reconstruction while allowing both sides to learn from each other’s experience.
Matthias Diependaele said the agreement reflects Flanders’ commitment to supporting Ukraine through practical cooperation, stronger infrastructure and closer economic ties.
