Published 12/1/2025
On 28 November, Ports of Stockholm brought together decision-makers, experts, and industry representatives for a packed Maritime Meeting, where the strategic importance of ports and shipping took centre stage.
In an era of heightened security tensions, ports are confronted with novel challenges, serving not only as trade hubs but also as pivotal nodes for Sweden's and NATO's defence capabilities.
The seminar addressed questions such as how ports can be strengthened as robust links in total defence, how civilian and military actors can collaborate more effectively, and how shared data and objectives can foster a more resilient maritime infrastructure.
NATO: Sweden's ports will play a key role
Aleksandrs Bucens from NATO-IS provided insight into NATO's expectations of Sweden as a new member country. He highlighted the crucial role of logistics, with Swedish ports set to become central hubs for both military and civilian mobility within the alliance.
Regional and national preparedness in a time of rapid change
Cecilia Skingsley, Governor of Stockholm County, described how the Stockholm County Administrative Board coordinates regional preparedness, and how cooperation in the Stockholm region is being strengthened in order to adapt to a new security policy reality.
Brigadier General Claes Isoz, Head of Logistics for the Swedish Armed Forces, emphasised the challenge of getting the right personnel and equipment to the right place quickly.
Tying Europe's Ports Together
Isabelle Ryckbost, Secretary General of the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), offered insights into how EU ports collaborate to ensure a cohesive and robust transport network in peacetime and in times of crisis.
The role of business: Flottor, flöden och framtidens beredskap
Branch manager Monika Przedpelska Öström described the central role of ports in national security. Over the next few years, she will be chairing BT-POS SJÖ, which coordinates issues relating to sea transport between the public sector and industry.
Anders Hermansson, CEO of Svensk Sjöfart, emphasised the importance of the Swedish merchant fleet for national security, as well as the conditions required for the shipping industry to maintain critical functions even in disrupted conditions.
Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line, also represented the business sector, providing insight into how his company maintains critical transport flows in everyday life and in times of crisis.
Michael Kellermann from Soya Group and Nordic Way Services described how innovative solutions and extensive global experience enable them to meet both civilian and military needs. He also emphasised the growing importance of close collaboration between emergency response organisations and industry.
Conclusion
The day ended with closing remarks from Magdalena Bosson (CEO of Stockholm Hamnar and moderator) and Jens Holm (V), chairman of the board. Johan Dahlman, Stockholm Hamnar's security chief, and Staffan Forsell, head of Strategy and Development, also summarised the importance of strengthening preparedness through dialogue, collaboration and shared goals.