Cyprus and India discuss maritime cooperation and business links in Limassol

Limassol, Cyprus. Cyprus and India discussed ways to deepen maritime cooperation and business links at the first meeting of the Cyprus–India Joint Maritime Committee on September 29. Investment, maritime education and training were among the main areas addressed.

Maritime sectors and cooperation

The meeting was held under the Bilateral Agreement on Merchant Shipping signed in 2017 and forms part of the Cyprus–India Joint Action Plan. It was co-chaired by Theodoulos Mesimeris, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Shipping Deputy Ministry, and Venkatesapathy S., Joint Secretary for International Cooperation at India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

The two sides presented their maritime sectors and shipping ecosystems. Cyprus also outlined the maritime and related services it offers as an international maritime centre.

Officials exchanged views on sharing best practices, policies and strategies within their ministries’ areas of responsibility. They placed particular emphasis on maritime education and training, as well as opportunities to attract investment into both countries’ maritime sectors. Cooperation within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and other issues of common interest were also discussed.

Planned business forum

The Joint Maritime Committee provides an institutional platform for dialogue on shipping matters and for identifying practical areas of further cooperation.

During the Indian delegation’s visit, discussions also covered the upcoming official visit of Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Minister to India, accompanied by a Cyprus maritime business delegation. A Maritime Business Forum is due to be held in Mumbai in November, and discussions on its organisation are under way.