Chios, Greece. Cyprus must help ensure Europe speaks with a clear and coordinated voice in global maritime affairs, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said during a working visit to Chios this week.
Forum addresses regulatory change and decarbonisation
Speaking at the 1st Mare Forum Chios, where she delivered the keynote address, Hadjimanolis said global shipping is facing regulatory change, geopolitical uncertainty and growing pressure to decarbonise, making cooperation between policymakers and industry more important than ever.
The forum took place on Friday, May 8, at the Chios Chandris Hotel, bringing together shipping industry representatives to discuss challenges and the future direction of global shipping.
Role of international frameworks and the IMO
Opening the event, Hadjimanolis said Cyprus believes Europe must remain closely aligned with international frameworks while maintaining a strong and coordinated presence in global maritime fora.
She said the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) remains the main forum for developing global maritime rules, ensuring both a level playing field and effective implementation across the sector.
Cyprus EU presidency priorities and Nicosia Declaration
Hadjimanolis linked the discussion in Chios to priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, saying Cyprus is working to strengthen the attractiveness of maritime careers, support skills development and ensure the profession remains fit for the future.
She said Cyprus, through targeted initiatives including the ‘Nicosia Declaration’ signed last week, aims to promote maritime education, innovation and decarbonisation while safeguarding the competitiveness of European shipping. She added that the declaration focuses on strengthening the human dimension of Europe’s maritime sector, including seafarer education and women’s inclusion in shipping.
Cyprus positioning as a maritime partner
“Cyprus has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate through periods of regional and global uncertainty, while maintaining a stable, reliable and business-friendly maritime environment,” Hadjimanolis said.
“This resilience strengthens our role as a reliable maritime partner and as a bridge connecting Europe with the wider region,” she added.
What role should Europe play in shaping global maritime rules through international fora?