IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry and Blank Rome LLP held a seminar on United States (US) Regulatory, Financial, and Political Issues Affecting Shipping on 26 April 2017 at the Metropolitan Hotel in Athens, Greece. The seminar was an opportunity for industry stakeholders to meet and discuss the current environment and the challenges ahead. The seminar was a success, with around 170 in attendance to hear the speakers and participate in the panel discussions.

Jeanne M. Grasso, Partner, Blank Rome LLP opened the first session of the seminar, focused on US regulatory and enforcement issues and moderated by Stefanos N. Roulakis, Associate, Blank Rome LLP, with a presentation on ballast water management challenges and realities. Following this, Lieutenant Samuel M. Danus, Port State Control Oversight, US Coast Guard (USCG), and Brian Poskaitis, Senior Vice President, Fleet Operations, IRI, presented on the topic of the USCG’s Qualship 21 Program. A panel discussion on operations in US waters relating to oily water separators, whistle blowers, and other legal risks, led by Jeanne M. Grasso; Gregory F. Linsin, Partner, Blank Rome LLP; George Margelis, Environmental Compliance Manager, TMS Dry Ltd; and Brian Poskaitis concluded the session.

A panel discussion, regarding sources of capital and restructuring and moderated by R. Anthony Salgado, Blank Rome LLP, comprised the second session. Participating in the panel were Jerry Kalogiratos, Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer, Capital Product Partners L.P.; Harrys Kosmatos, Corporate Development Officer, Tsakos Energy Navigation, Ltd.; Simos Spyrou, Chief Financial Officer, Star Bulk Carriers Corp.; and Ioannis Zafirakis, Director, Chief Operating Officer and Secretary, Diana Shipping Inc.

Joan M. Bondareff, Of Counsel, Blank Rome LLP; Scott D. Hatch, Principal, Blank Rome Government Relations LLC; Stephen C. Peranich, Principal, Blank Rome Government Relations LLC; and Matthew J. Thomas, Partner, Blank Rome LLP gave a presentation on the new administration in Washington, D.C.’s policy changes and legislation affecting shipping and international trade to conclude the seminar.

At the close of the seminar, a cocktail reception was held where attendees had the opportunity to mingle with other members of the Greek shipping community.

IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry is honored to have hosted this seminar alongside Blank Rome LLP and the exemplary speakers who provided their expertise to the discussion and looks forward to holding similar informative sessions for the industry to meet and exchange ideas in the future.

Source: IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry