Global shipping continues to face various challenges, however Cyprus shipping remains resilient, innovative and prosperous, Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hadjimanolis, has said, adding that 2026 is a year full of opportunities ''despite its turbulent waters.''
Hadjimanolis addressed the proceedings of the 3rd CSN Cyprus Shipping Debate, titled 'Shipping Through Times of Turbulence and Innovation,' which took place in Limassol on Thursday, 22 January.
The Deputy Minister said that the shipping industry is at a pivotal point that will shape its future, adding that development of technology and innovation, if used properly, can significantly strengthen the shipping industry, in a sustainable and long-term manner.
She referred to issues such as decarbonisation, environmental regulations, digitalisation, the lack of trained seafarers and geopolitical developments, which collectively create a complex framework of challenges that make the shipping sector extremely vulnerable.
Despite the challenges, Hadjimanolis stressed, Cyprus shipping has remained resilient, innovative and successful, further strengthening and consolidating its position.
She said that in the last two years, the Cypriot registry has increased by more than 20%, as a result of a strategic plan of priorities. The Eeputy Minister expressed her satisfaction with the registration of newly built ships in the Cyprus registry by several companies that trust the prestige and quality of the Cyprus flag, as she underlined.
At the same time, she continued, the services provided to shipping companies continue to be upgraded, ensuring that the Cyprus registry remains modern, efficient and competitive.
Hadjimanolis further said that digitalisation of the services offered by the Deputy Ministry of Shipping is expected to add another strong competitive advantage. She also referred to the significance of Cyprus' re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organization and made special reference to the priorities during the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
As she said, these include the strengthening of seafarers' education, in particular through retraining and upgrading their skills, raising awareness about the maritime profession and promoting the equal participation of women throughout the maritime sector.
These priorities, she noted, are expected to be formally adopted through the Nicosia Declaration at the Informal Council of EU Ministers for Maritime Affairs, which will take place on 29 April.
Furthermore, she continued, on 28 April, the Deputy Ministry of Shipping will organise a High-Level Ministerial Conference, designed for these national priorities for seafarers and the equal participation of women.
The 3rd CSN Cyprus Shipping Debate was also welcomed by the President of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Andreas Neophytou, who also referred to the challenges facing shipping and assured that the Chamber will continue to work and support its members and cooperate with the government and the Deputy Ministry, aiming at a sustainable, competitive and internationally harmonised shipping sector.
(Source: CNA)
