Italian Shipbuilder Fincantieri Partners with Saudi Arabia to Strengthen Maritime Sector
In a groundbreaking move, one of the world’s largest shipbuilders, Fincantieri, is joining forces with Saudi Arabia to enhance the Kingdom’s maritime industry. The focus? Sustainability and the advancement of “green shipping.”
At a conference titled “Where Vision Meets Maritime Excellence” in Riyadh, Fincantieri, a prominent Italian company and Europe’s top shipbuilding group, underscored its dedication to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda.
Top decisionmakers from various sectors in Riyadh, along with Italian officials, convened for a series of insightful sessions at the forum.
During the event, Fincantieri’s CEO, Pierroberto Folgiero, unveiled the shipbuilder’s ambitious plans to collaborate with Saudi enterprises in alignment with Vision 2030.
“Our commitment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is unwavering,” Folgiero declared.
Fincantieri, known for its innovative approach, holds a prominent position in the naval, cruise, and oil and gas industries, Folgiero highlighted.
Emphasizing the importance of developing environmentally-friendly vessels, designed to minimize the impact of maritime operations, the CEO stressed Saudi Arabia’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
Furthermore, digitizing shipyard operations through cutting-edge technologies like AI resonates with the objectives of Vision 2030, according to Folgiero.
In his words, “Today, the shipping industry and the maritime industry, in general, is grappling with environmental regulations. For us, it is not just about compliance, but also about distinction. We firmly believe that mastering energy transition and new technologies in the maritime and shipbuilding sectors will be key for competitiveness and distinctiveness.”
“We are fully committed to energy transition solutions at sea. From biofuels to methanol, LNG, ammonia, and hydrogen, we are at the forefront of innovation in the maritime industry,” Folgiero added.
Maria Tripodi, undersecretary of state for foreign affairs at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stressed the importance of maintaining sustainable operations and businesses.
Highlighting the fact that Fincantieri’s ships are designed to produce zero carbon emissions, Tripodi emphasized the positive impact on the environment and marine ecosystem.
Deputy Minister for Industry Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, Khalil Ibrahim bin Salamah, underscored the significance of localization and a robust supply chain.