The event represented an important opportunity to reinforce cooperation within the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region on a shared and strategic challenge: improving the efficiency, sustainability and integration of freight transport systems through digitalisation and data interoperability.
In line with the objectives of EUSAIR Pillar 2 – Connecting the Region – and its flagship initiative Green and Smart Port Hubs, the discussion highlighted the key role of ports and multimodal nodes as enablers of more efficient and sustainable logistics chains. In particular, the digitalisation of the road last mile emerged as a crucial area where coordinated action at macro-regional level can generate tangible benefits in terms of reduced congestion, lower emissions and improved reliability of freight flows.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Pierluigi Coppola, EUSAIR Pillar 2 Transport Coordinator, stressed the importance of scaling up successful experiences developed in the Northern Adriatic ports to the wider macro-regional context, highlighting the role of cooperation projects in fostering alignment among stakeholders and enabling the transfer of solutions across territories.
The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives of European institutions, national and regional authorities, port authorities, intermodal terminals and logistics operators. This diversity of perspectives confirmed the need for integrated approaches and shared solutions across different governance levels and geographical contexts.
A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of aligning different European and national funding instruments to support innovation and deployment. Experiences from several projects – including ACCESSMILE, MILEPORT, PRESPORT, MERIDIAN and ELODIE – demonstrated how cooperation across programmes can enhance impact, moving from pilot actions to concrete operational improvements.
The exchange of experiences also highlighted the relevance of advanced digital solutions, such as real-time traffic management, interoperable data platforms and automated gate systems, as key enablers of more efficient port access and logistics operations. At the same time, the discussions underlined that digitalisation must go hand in hand with broader sustainability objectives, contributing to the twin transition of the transport sector.
Overall, the event confirmed the added value of the EUSAIR framework in fostering dialogue, knowledge sharing and coordination among stakeholders. By promoting synergies across projects, policies and funding instruments, the macro-regional approach can play a decisive role in accelerating the transition towards greener, smarter and more connected port systems in the Adriatic-Ionian area.
