London, United Kingdom. Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis visited London this week for meetings linked to Cyprus’ role at the International Maritime Organisation and preparations for the country’s EU Council presidency.
Meetings linked to IMO and EU presidency
Hadjimanolis spoke on LGR 103.3 FM Greek Radio London with host journalist Vasoula Christodoulou, saying she wanted to be in London in person and recalling her student years in the UK when Greek radio “made us feel like we were in our homeland”.
She said Cyprus’ frequent presence in London is closely tied to the IMO, where the country continues to be elected to the Council.
During the visit, she held a bilateral meeting with her UK counterpart, Keir Mather, focusing on strengthening relations between Cyprus and the United Kingdom and addressing broader challenges facing global shipping.
She said she briefed Mather on the priorities of the Cyprus presidency of the Council of the European Union and expressed confidence that cooperation between the two countries will continue and be further strengthened over the coming six months.
In parallel, she met with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez to discuss current developments linked to the presidency and additional events being planned during Cyprus’ term.
Later in the week, Cyprus is hosting a reception at its High Commission in London to mark both its re-election to the IMO Council and the assumption of the EU presidency.
Diaspora and economic role of shipping
Hadjimanolis stressed the importance of the Cypriot and Greek diaspora, describing them as “our ambassadors here in the United Kingdom” and saying their presence and interest help amplify Cyprus’ message internationally.
She said shipping remains one of Cyprus’ most important economic pillars, contributing more than 7 per cent to GDP, which she said corresponds to around €2.5 billion.
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