Cyprus Ports Authority, in collaboration with the joint venture TRITON Consultants Engineers Ltd and I.A.CO Environmental And Water Consultants Limited, signed an agreement on Thursday to significantly expand the Latsi Port. The agreement aims to triple the size of the existing port and accommodate future cruise ships, making it a pivotal development for the region. The contract was awarded to the joint venture after a competitive open competition.

Antonis St. Stylianou, President of the Board of Directors of the Cyprus Ports Authority, revealed that the investment in Latsi Port amounts to 45 million euros, making it one of the largest self-funded investments made by the authority. The project encompasses the addition of 350 new berthing spaces, conforming to modern international mooring and berthing standards, as well as the creation of new onshore areas and facilities. Moreover, there are future plans to enable the mooring of cruise ships using the external breakwater. The development will also enhance the port services provided by the Cyprus Ports Authority in the area.

Notably, this project is designed to be the first fully green port facility in Cyprus, emphasizing environmental consciousness and aligning with contemporary port practices on both European and global levels. The initiative demonstrates a profound respect for the coastal and marine environment, bringing positive impacts not only to the port's operations but also to the local community.

Panagiotis Agathocleous, Director of Limassol Port and representative of the Cyprus Ports Authority management, emphasized the strategic value of the Latsi Port expansion. He highlighted its sustainable nature and the manifold benefits it will bring to the broader region. The project's success will further bolster the Cyprus Ports Authority's operational activities, setting an exemplary standard for port developments. With a mindful approach to the neighboring area's significance, the initiative aims to foster economic growth and prosperity for the local community while promoting domestic coastal tourism.

Representatives of the contracting joint venture, Dr. Ioannis Sioris from TRITON Consultants Engineers Ltd and Agis I. Iakovides from I.A.CO Ltd Environmental & Water Consultants, conveyed their full commitment to execute the project in line with the Cyprus Ports Authority's terms and conditions. They expressed unwavering confidence in completing the project within the agreed-upon timeline.

In other news, Kition Ocean Holdings has announced the extension of low berthing fees for the next quarter after holding a meeting with the local representative of the Pan-Cyprian Association of Seafarers in Larnaca, Andreas Panayiotou. During the meeting, they discussed the low passenger traffic on tourist vessels. The company has decided to maintain the current low charges, based on the 2022 prices, for the months of June to September, effectively foregoing proposed increases.

Additionally, there was an update during the meeting on the progress of the first phase of the pier restoration works, with reassurance that it will be completed by early September. To ensure seamless continuation of the restoration project for the second phase of the pier, both parties reiterated their agreement to clear all objects from the specified location, facilitating the contractor's progress. This proactive approach aims to avoid any potential delays in the project timeline.