Cyprus, as the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, is leading substantive consultations aimed at ensuring the competitiveness of European shipping, Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis has said.
According to the Deputy Minister, who represented the Republic of Cyprus at the 18th Efkranti Awards Ceremony, which took place in Athens on 28 May, the Efkranti Awards have now established themselves as a leading institution for the Greek shipping community, highlighting individuals who, through their work and contributions, make a substantial contribution to the progress and development of shipping.
“For all of us who serve this dynamic and multifaceted industry with a sense of responsibility, supporting such initiatives is both a duty and a responsibility. Tonight’s event is not merely an opportunity to recognize prominent figures in the shipping sector. It also highlights the timeless and unbreakable bond between Shipping and Culture, two concepts inextricably linked to the historical course of Greece and Cyprus,” she continued.
“Greece and Cyprus, two nations with a long-standing maritime tradition, share common principles and values and are bound by strong historical and fraternal ties. Together we have achieved much, and together we can achieve even more for the sustainable development of European and global shipping,” she noted.
She added that the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and scientific training highlights seafaring as a driver of progress, innovation, and cultural heritage, while at the same time, creating the conditions for the challenges of our time to be transformed into opportunities for growth and development, while the decisive role of seafarers is increasingly recognized.
“Cyprus, as the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, is leading substantive consultations aimed at ensuring the competitiveness of European shipping, promoting the green and digital transition, and maintaining a level playing field for European shipping companies”, noted Hadjimanoli.
She added that, at the same time, particular emphasis is placed on addressing the shortage of officers and seafarers, upgrading skills and maritime education, as well as promoting gender equality in the shipping sector.
She also expressed satisfaction for the signing of the Nicosia Declaration last month by all European Union member states.
“The Declaration highlights the strategic importance of maritime and shipping professions at a time of intense geopolitical developments, technological transformations, and increased demands for the green and digital transition,” she stressed, adding that at the same time, it addresses common and substantial challenges, such as the skills shortage, the aging of the maritime workforce, the growing risks to seafarers’ safety, and the historically low participation of women in the maritime profession, particularly at sea.
“Undoubtedly, the shipping industry continues to operate in an environment of heightened uncertainty, characterized by geopolitical tensions and instability in international markets. However, the shipping sector has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability, maintaining a stable, reliable, and competitive operating environment even during periods of crisis and international challenges. The future of shipping will be built on cooperation, trust, and collective effort. We all have a responsibility to invest in the sustainable development of this strategically important sector, which we serve with consistency and dedication,” the Deputy Minister concluded.
(Source: CNA)
