Marina Hadjimanolis: "The success story of Cyprus shipping is rooted in the close collaboration between the public and private sectors"
The Deputy Minister of Shipping was addressing the Maritime Cyprus conference in Limassol
In her address on the first day of Maritime Cyprus, Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister, said she welcomed delegates “To Limassol, the capital of shipping”.
She noted that the event was “a unique conference with a history of 36 years, creating a platform for global dialogue that has endured for this age. This gathering today is more than an event. It is a celebration of the spirit of resilience and enduring excellence of shipping”.
“Since the 1960s Cyprus has nurtured its maritime identity, creating a long and proud maritime tradition, from our early days as a strategic hub in the Mediterranean to becoming a global leader in ship management and a proud sovereign flag state with more than 60 years of tradition and experience. Our journey reflects ambition, collaboration and commitment to excellence,” Hadjimanolis continued.
She noted that Cyprus’ first port of registry was Famagusta, followed, due to the Turkish invasion in 1974, by Limassol.
“The success story of Cyprus shipping is rooted in the close collaboration between the public and private sectors, working together to enhance the competitiveness and quality. Partnerships with the Cyprus ship owners and the Cyprus shipping chamber, together with the powerful industry providing all types of maritime services exemplify this productive collaboration,” she said, adding, “But Cyprus shipping is not only about fleets or vessels. Cyprus shipping is about the people, the most valuable and strongest component of Cyprus shipping is our talented, dedicated and professional workforce which defines the strength of our industry, our companies and our ambassadors in this journey.”
She added, “We never forget that these are people who paved the way and contributed in any way to the development of Cyprus shipping”.
She continued that the island was not, however, resting on the laurels of its history, “We are building the future together.”
Reflecting on her own journey as Deputy Minister, Hadjimanolis said she was reminded of the vision and courage of the people who brought the sector to where it was today. “Our achievements are measured not only in tonnage of its size, but in the resilience, professionalism and dedication of the people who drive this sector forward. Building strong relationships based on friendship and mutual respect has been central to our success, and it is this spirit of cooperation that will continue to guide us into the future. To all participants here, let us continue to innovate, collaborate and invest in the future of shipping and despite the challenges that we will have to face, let us ensure that shipping will remain competitive and resilient,” she said.
The Deputy Minister concluded, “The sea connects us all regardless of nationality or where we come from, and the choices we make today will shape not only Cyprus shipping, but the global maritime community for generations to come. I warmly invite you to experience Maritime Cyprus, to engage with our industry, explore the strength of our maritime cluster, and witness first-hand how Cyprus has grown into one of the world's leading shipping nations."
