Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus and India are seeking to translate expanding political ties into maritime partnerships, with Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis preparing an official visit to India alongside a Cypriot shipping business delegation.
Hadjimanolis met India’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, Manish Manish, on Tuesday to discuss the planned visit and identify areas for cooperation across the maritime sector.
Business cooperation
According to the Shipping Deputy Ministry, the mission will focus on business-to-business cooperation by connecting Cypriot maritime companies with potential Indian partners and exploring commercial opportunities in key shipping areas.
The two officials also discussed the next steps for implementing the Bilateral Agreement on Merchant Shipping, including plans to convene the first Cyprus–India Joint Maritime Committee.
Maritime agreement
The committee is expected to provide a more structured framework for cooperation between the two governments and their maritime industries.
The agreement, signed during former president Nicos Anastasiades’ state visit to India in April 2017, covers cooperation in merchant shipping and maritime transport.
Strategic partnership
Tuesday’s meeting followed President Nikos Christodoulides’ state visit to India from May 20 to 23, during which Cyprus and India elevated their relations to a strategic partnership.
During talks between Christodoulides and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the two sides emphasised shipping’s role in strengthening trade and connectivity, particularly between the Indo-Pacific and Europe through maritime partnerships.
They also agreed to establish a joint task force to support cooperation in sectors including shipping and infrastructure, while placing greater emphasis on maritime security and commercial engagement.
Market access
The latest discussions are intended to advance these commitments in the maritime sector, with Hadjimanolis’ forthcoming visit expected to offer governments and businesses an opportunity to develop practical projects.
Cyprus has presented itself as a gateway for Indian companies seeking access to European markets through its European Union membership and established international shipping centre. India offers Cypriot maritime companies access to a large and growing market supported by shipbuilding, ports, logistics and seafarer industries.