Cyprus and China discuss maritime cooperation ahead of ministerial visit

Nicosia, Cyprus. Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis and China’s new ambassador, Yang Yundong, discussed maritime cooperation, seafarers and maritime education during a courtesy meeting ahead of Hadjimanolis’ planned visit to China.

The two sides also exchanged views on continued coordination at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Maritime cooperation

Hadjimanolis and Yang reviewed areas of mutual maritime interest, including the longstanding agreement governing shipping relations between Cyprus and China and the potential for closer cooperation in maritime education.

The wellbeing of seafarers was also discussed, alongside training and the future maritime workforce, which Cyprus has placed increasingly high on its shipping agenda this year.

Existing framework

Cyprus and China signed an Agreement on Maritime Transport on August 29, 1990. A protocol amending the agreement was signed in December 2003 and entered into force in 2005.

IMO coordination

The meeting also addressed continued cooperation at the IMO. Cyprus has consistently supported multilateral decision-making through the organisation on issues including safety, security, environmental protection and decarbonisation.

Hadjimanolis briefed Yang on her forthcoming visit to China, which is expected to provide a further opportunity to continue discussions on bilateral maritime cooperation.

Ambassador’s appointment

Yang arrived in Cyprus at the beginning of July and presented his credentials to President Nikos Christodoulides on July 8.

The meeting with Hadjimanolis was part of a series of contacts with government officials and institutions following his appointment, while shipping remains an established area of practical cooperation between Cyprus and China.