Shipping Arabia, October 16, 2026 – Port of Beirut maritime security and the port’s strategic importance to Lebanon were highlighted during a visit by European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. The visit focused on the port’s role within Lebanon’s national maritime security strategy and the European Union’s continued support for security and safety standards.
Kallas was accompanied by EU Ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele and Chairman of the European Union Military Committee, Gen. Seán Clancy. During the visit, the delegation met with Port of Beirut Chairman and Director General Marwan El-Naffi to discuss the port’s importance and ongoing efforts to maintain maritime security and operational safety.
El-Naffi accompanied Kallas on a tour of the port’s container terminal, where the delegation observed operational activities and reviewed the security and safety procedures currently in place.
Port of Beirut Maritime Security and EU Support
El-Naffi described the visit as recognition of the Port of Beirut’s strategic position and its importance to Lebanon and the wider region. He emphasized that the European Union has supported the port, particularly in areas related to maritime security and safety.
According to El-Naffi, the presence of the EU’s High Representative reaffirmed the continuation of this support and highlighted the port’s significance within Lebanon’s national economy.
He also pointed to the Port of Beirut’s regional importance, describing it as a gateway to the East. The visit, he said, reflected the port’s central position and the role it continues to play at the national and regional levels.
The discussions and container terminal tour placed particular emphasis on the security and safety arrangements supporting port operations. These measures remain an important part of the port management’s efforts to maintain established operational standards.
Port Management Reaffirms Commitment to Security and Safety Standards
El-Naffi highlighted the progress achieved at the Port of Beirut through the implementation of security and safety measures. He attributed the improvements to the procedures and arrangements adopted by the port’s management.
The chairman reaffirmed the port’s commitment to maintaining these standards while continuing to develop and strengthen its security and safety systems.
He emphasized the importance of preserving the progress already achieved and ensuring that existing measures continue to support the port’s operational activities.
The visit brought renewed attention to the European Union’s support for the Port of Beirut and the importance of maintaining maritime security and safety standards. It also highlighted the port’s role within Lebanon’s maritime security strategy and its significance to the national economy and the wider region.
Source: Port of Beirut
