Thomas Kazakos: Cyprus, as an island state, has a thriving shipping industry and a long history in shipping

President Nikos Christodoulides received the newly appointed Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Thomas Kazakos, at the Presidential Palace, where he expressed his support and offered his assistance in all efforts he is making for shipping.

Kazakos presented the main activities of ICS to the President “in detail”, noting afterwards that they had a “productive discussion.”

“Cyprus, as an island state, has a thriving shipping industry and a long history in shipping,” he said, noting that the President said during their meeting that “he fully understands” both the challenges and the opportunities that a thriving shipping industry offers.

He added, “International shipping is going through a period of major changes, such as the green transition and decarbonisation, and a host of challenges due to external factors.” “It is therefore imperative that cooperation between the

President Christodoulides will attend a ceremony on the assumption of Kazakos’ duties that will be held in Athens in June, Director of the President's Press Office, Victoras Papadopoulos said after the meeting.

Kazakos, who served as Director General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, is the first Cypriot to be appointed Secretary General of the ICS.

According to Papadopoulos, during the meeting, the President exchanged views with Kazakos on shipping, and congratulated him on behalf of the state on his election.

He noted that it was “a great honour for our country” and the culmination of Kazakos’ 30-year contribution to the country’s shipping sector.

President Christodoulides wished Kazakos “every success in his work” and assured him of his support and assistance in all the efforts he is making for shipping.

“Shipping is very important for our economy, we are a pioneering country in this sector with significant achievements”, Papadopoulos said.