Mesaoria: At a time when global maritime regulation continues to evolve, Cyprus firmly believes that Europe must remain closely aligned with international frameworks and maintain a strong, coordinated voice in global maritime fora, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said, pointing out that constructive engagement between policy-makers and the industry is essential to achieving this balance. Addressing the 1st Mare Forum Chios 2026, on Friday, the Deputy Minister noted that the challenges the maritime industry is faced with are global in nature and cannot be addressed in isolation, but require cooperation, dialogue, and solutions that are realistic, balanced, and internationally aligned.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the role of the International Maritime Organization remains fundamental as the primary forum for developing global maritime rules that ensure a level playing field and effective implementation worldwide. Hadjimanolis added that shipping and maritime affairs are among the key priorities for the Cyprus EU Presidency. Through targeted initiatives, including the Lefkosia Declaration that was signed last week by all 27 member states and high-level dialogue with stakeholders, Cyprus aims to promote training, innovation, and decarbonisation while safeguarding the competitiveness of European shipping.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that the Cyprus Presidency places particular emphasis on ensuring that the European Union remains closely aligned with international maritime frameworks and maintains a strong, coordinated voice at the IMO. She further referred to ship owning and shipmanagement, legal and financial services, crewing, and education on the island, noting that the approach is guided by a firm commitment to safety, quality, competitiveness, and sustainability, always within the framework of international law and global standards.
Hadjimanolis also highlighted the Cyprus-Chios ties through a shared maritime heritage, common respect for the sea, and a joint commitment to passing these values on to future generations.