As 2009 dawns, the main question for everybody is how the world economy will develop under the impact of the global credit crunch and recession. This challenge will spare nobody and has unavoidable implications for the coming year.
Crises are moments of economic and social catharsis, requiring us as a society to reflect on our position. What are the fundamental causes? How should we deal with them? Which choices should we make? In a crisis of these proportions, the national reflex to call for protectionist measures is never far off, and can be politically attractive. Yet, further globalization is the only option open to us, and the crisis is an excellent opportunity to mitigate its negative effects. Ports have always been gateways to the world, and this openness can perhaps inspire others.
For port authorities, 2009 will be an important exercise in dealing flexibly with sudden fluctuations in the international market, especially in the short term. But balancing supply and demand in a global context is a huge challenge. It will require creativity and inventiveness, forcing us to pursue a more phased policy in planning and in infrastructure.
At the same time, it provides extra motivation to further develop and secure a multifunctional port such as Antwerp. I am convinced that the multifunctional nature of a port community offers the best protection against fluctuations in the economy.
It also will be necessary to make clear choices for hinterland policy, in economic, social and ecological terms. If we are to secure and promote further growth opportunities, we must look more to modes that do not involve road transport. Infrastructure projects that promote intermodalism are therefore a priority, requiring well-founded policy.