Cyprus president calls shipping a pillar of the economy — Cyprus Mail
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, speaking at a shipowners’ dinner in Athens, Greece, called shipping a fundamental pillar of the economy and an important component of the country’s international identity. The event on September 18 was organised by the Cyprus Union of Shipowners on the occasion of its annual general meeting, Cyprus Mail reports.
Common maritime priorities
The dinner at the Four Seasons Astir Palace hotel was attended by Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, Greek government Vice President Kostis Hatzidakis, Cypriot Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos, Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas, diplomats and representatives of the shipping industry.
Cyprus Union of Shipowners President Polis Hadjioannou spoke of the strategic role of Greek and Cypriot shipping for Europe’s maritime capacity and the protection of freedom of navigation. He also warned of the regulatory burden on the European industry, particularly from the EU Emissions Trading System and the FuelEU Maritime initiative, which, he said, is especially felt by small and medium-sized businesses.
Coordinated position in the EU
Konstantinos Tasoulas stressed that free and safe shipping is the basis of global stability. According to him, increased geopolitical tensions have raised Greece’s and Cyprus’ responsibility for the uninterrupted functioning of global supply chains and adherence to the principles of open seas.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
The Greek president also said that the two countries need a coordinated position in EU institutions on the green and digital transformation of shipping. He confirmed Greece’s support for resolving the Cyprus issue in accordance with UN resolutions and the European acquis.
Challenges for the industry
Christodoulides thanked the Cyprus Union of Shipowners for its contribution to strengthening the Cypriot ship registry and noted Cyprus’ cooperation with Greece and other EU states in the area of international shipping security. He named decarbonisation, digitalisation, technological development and staff shortages among the key challenges.
The Cypriot president said that new regulatory measures for the industry must be realistic, proportionate and applicable globally. He also noted the growth of the Cypriot ship registry and the country’s stronger presence in the International Maritime Organization.
