Limassol, Cyprus. Cyprus used two transport events in Limassol to press its case for a stronger voice in European maritime policy, the Cyprus Ports Authority said, citing the island’s strategic position at the EU’s eastern edge.
European Maritime Space Forum focuses on transport policy and supply chains
In a statement, the authority said the 4th European Maritime Space Forum served as a platform for discussion on the future of the European Maritime Space within wider European transport policy, while also focusing on the resilience and sustainability of supply chains.
The forum, held under the auspices of Gesine Meissner, European Coordinator for the European Maritime Space, was welcomed by Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades and brought together representatives of the European Commission, EU member states, European organisations, port authorities and bodies from the maritime and port sectors.
Cyprus Ports Authority cites Trans-European Transport Network role
According to the authority, its vice-president Christiana Iacovidou said the European Maritime Space is a key pillar of the Trans-European Transport Network and an important tool for strengthening links between maritime and land transport.
She also referred to Cyprus’ geostrategic importance as the easternmost EU member state and as a gateway between Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean, the statement said.
Presentations include co-financed projects and support mechanisms
The authority said the forum included presentations on co-financed European projects linked to the objectives of the European Maritime Space, including IMPACT, concerning the expansion of Vassilikos port, and DECARBONLIM, focused on low-emission solutions at Limassol port.
Projects from Valencia and Malta were also presented, and a representative of the European Investment Bank outlined available support mechanisms.
CPA also participates in TEN-T conference during Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU
In a separate announcement, the Cyprus Ports Authority said its representatives also took part in the TEN-T conference, Connecting Europe’s Extremities: From the Edges to the Core, held in Limassol as part of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
It said the conference brought together senior officials, experts and transport operators to examine the strategic role of the Trans-European Transport Network in linking the bloc’s island and remote regions with the European core.
What priorities should Cyprus advocate for in European maritime policy?