In October 2023, Port Oostende had the pleasure of naming Patrick Degryse as the first "Port Personality of the Year". This award honours individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Port Oostende.
In 2024, Port Oostende is proud to award this prestigious recognition to not just one, but three exceptional individuals from Japanese companies, whose innovative efforts and unwavering dedication have greatly enhanced the port's operations and solidified the bond between Japan and Oostende.
Port Personality of the Year
In the presence of President of Port Oostende Charlotte Verkeyn, Minister Oeda of the Embassy of Japan to Belgium, and First Secretary Mr. Kawaguchi, Frans Hoorelbeke of Daikin Europe received this honour for his relentless dedication to estuary shipping and for strengthening the ties between Daikin and Port Oostende.
Additionally, Kristof Buffel and David Bruyndonckx of Toyota Motor Europe were recognised as a duo for their joint contributions to the ongoing collaboration between Port Oostende and the Japanese industry. Congratulations to these three winners!
