Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis has reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to international maritime cooperation during a reception held at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in London, as the island continues to strengthen its place in global shipping diplomacy. 

The reception, organised by the Shipping Deputy Ministry on the sidelines of the 137th IMO Council, was attended by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and representatives of IMO member states. 

Addressing guests, Hadjimanolis said such gatherings allowed countries to move beyond the formal setting of negotiations and meetings, while strengthening “the spirit of cooperation and friendship that lies at the heart of the IMO”. 

She said Cyprus, with its long maritime tradition and strong commitment to international shipping, remains “a maritime nation” with one of the largest fleets in the world under its flag and a well-established maritime centre offering high-quality services across the sector. 

“Our success is closely linked to the work and values of the IMO,” she said, adding that Cyprus remains fully committed to supporting the organisation’s objectives and contributing constructively to its work, in cooperation with all member states. 

The message comes at a significant moment for the sector. The London session is taking place at a time when international shipping is under pressure from geopolitical instability, decarbonisation targets, safety concerns and the need to protect vital sea lanes. 

For Cyprus, the setting also carried wider significance. Shipping remains one of the island’s most important industries, with Hadjimanolis previously saying that the sector entered 2026 in stronger shape, despite the disruptions facing global trade. 

The island has also been working to keep maritime policy high on its agenda ahead of its EU Council Presidency, while using its presence at the IMO to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties. Earlier this year, Cyprus and the UK also pledged to deepen maritime cooperation, following talks in London linked to Cyprus’ role at the IMO. 

Hadjimanolis’ latest visit formed part of a broader effort to keep Cyprus visible in international shipping decision-making, particularly at a time when regional crises continue to test the industry. In March, the minister said Cyprus was closely monitoring the situation in the Gulf, where Cyprus-flagged ships were reported to be safe, while also stressing the wider risks facing seafarers and shipping routes. 

On the sidelines of the Council session, Hadjimanolis also held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority president, H.E. Eng. Fawaz Al-Sahli. 

The two sides discussed developments in international shipping and reaffirmed the strong maritime relations between Cyprus and Saudi Arabia. They also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation within the IMO. 

A key part of the discussion was the early finalisation and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on maritime cooperation, which is expected to further deepen ties between the two countries in the sector.