Cyprus bolsters maritime ties at European Cruise Summit

Cypriot Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis played a prominent role in the European Cruise Summit, organised by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), during the association’s annual Cruise Week, held in Genoa, Italy, from March 12 to March 14, 2024.

According to a press release issued by the ministry, Hadjimanolis participated in a panel discussion focusing on the decarbonisation of the cruise industry.

During this session, she highlighted Cyprus’ efforts and initiatives in this direction while emphasising the country’s strong support for the cruise sector’s endeavours to comply with the new requirements.

In addition, the Deputy Minister of Shipping addressed the conference on March 14, where discussions centred on opportunities for women’s employment in the cruise industry.

In this context, Hadjimanolis presented the relevant framework of actions by the Deputy Ministry of Shipping.

During the Summit, on March 12, Hadjimanolis held a joint meeting with the CEOs of Royal Caribbean Group, MSC Cruises, Carnival Corporation, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Celestyal, in the presence of CLIA’s executive director.

At the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Shipping presented Cyprus’ positions as a maritime EU member state, while discussions revolved around issues concerning cruise companies, particularly strategies to align the cruise industry with the EU’s new environmental regulations.

On March 13, Hadjimanolis met with Edoardo Rixi, the Italian Deputy Minister of Transport responsible for maritime affairs. Rixi raised issues related to the competitiveness of EU member states’ ports, while Hadjimanolis outlined Cyprus’ positions regarding the competitiveness of European shipping in general.

The two officials agreed to enhance cooperation between their respective areas and to undertake joint initiatives to ensure equal competitiveness conditions in the maritime sector.

Furthermore, on the sidelines of the Summit, an event was organised to present credentials to the new Consul of Cyprus in Genoa, Filippo Fabri, by the Ambassador of Cyprus to Italy, George Christofides.

Among others, members of Italy’s maritime community attended the event, providing them with an opportunity to learn more about Cypriot shipping and professional prospects in Cyprus.

Finally, the announcement noted that during various other events, the Deputy Minister of Shipping had the chance to engage in discussions with Giovanni Toti, the President of the Liguria Region, and Marco Bucci, the Mayor of Genoa.