The XLVII Annual Ordinary Meeting of the Central American Isthmus Port Meeting (REPICA) began today at the Sheraton Hotel in Panama City. Representatives from Central American Isthmus port authorities, regional institutions, and international experts are participating in the meeting, which is being coordinated by the Central American Maritime Transport Commission (COCATRAM) in its capacity as the permanent Technical Secretariat of REPICA.
The opening day of this important regional forum began with the accreditation and registration of participants, followed by the official opening ceremony led by the President of the 47th REPICA, Volney Guinard, who highlighted the commitment of member countries to the sustainable and competitive development of the regional port sector.
Subsequently, the Technical Secretary of REPICA, Otto Noack, verified the quorum, presented the Minutes of the XLVI REPICA and the follow-up report on the resolutions adopted at the previous meeting, highlighting the progress made in key regional initiatives.
The working day continued with a review of the process for admitting new members, moderated by the Technical Secretariat. This reaffirmed the inclusive and collaborative nature of REPICA as a platform for strengthening the Central American port system.
One of the day’s central topics was Álvaro Rodríguez’s presentation of the strategic framework for Spanish ports. Rodríguez is the Deputy Director of Strategy and Business Development at Puertos del Estado and spoke about the shared vision of efficiency and sustainability in port management.
Next was a technical panel on innovative dredging solutions with representatives from Dutch Dredging, Van Oord, and Boskalis. They addressed key aspects of sustainability, operational efficiency, and environmental quality in dredging projects.
On behalf of COCATRAM, the Director of Maritime and Port Affairs, José Dopeso, presented a regional assessment of local contingency plans for oil spills in ports and port facilities, emphasizing the importance of strengthening emergency response capabilities in the maritime-port sector.
Finally, the handling, storage, and final disposal of dangerous goods was addressed, with a specific analysis of the case of Guatemala presented by Dangerous Goods Specialist César Murillo, highlighting the challenges and best practices in managing the risks associated with this type of cargo.
The XLVII REPICA will continue until Friday, September 26, consolidating its position as the main regional forum for exchange in the port sector.