"Maritime Cyprus 2023" Conference Kicks Off in Limassol
The Event Sees Participation From 900 Delegates Across 35 Countries
The "Maritime Cyprus 2023" conference, themed "Shipping in Action: An Agenda for Change," has commenced in Limassol. Co-hosted by the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, and the Cyprus Shipowners Union, the event sees participation from 900 delegates across 35 countries.
At the heart of discussions is the green agenda. Dignitaries, including the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization Kitack Lim, IMO Secretary General-elect Arsenio Dominguez, and key ministers from Greece, India, and Cyprus, are participating alongside industry leaders.
President Nicos Christodoulides inaugurated the conference, emphasizing the crucial role of shipping in Cyprus' economy. He also launched the Maritime Services Exhibition, highlighting the country's stature as a leading shipping services provider.
Arsenio Dominguez, IMO Secretary General-elect, spoke on Cyprus' pivotal role in maritime transitions, particularly towards green initiatives. Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Chatzimanoli reiterated the nation's pride in its dynamic shipping sector.
Conference Chairman, Stelios Himonas, outlined the diverse subjects that will be tackled, including sustainable shipping, energy transition, ship finance, and the future of EU shipping, among others. A special session for young executives, in association with WISTA Cyprus and YoungShip, aims to engage the younger generation in maritime topics.
IMO SG Kitack Lim emphasized the maritime community's unity and highlighted the industry's ongoing efforts toward decarbonization, digitalization, and automation. He lauded the recent 2023 Strategy on Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Shipping by IMO.
In a video message, European Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean spotlighted the shipping sector's commitment to a green future, backed by European support. She encouraged a broader dialogue on the future of the industry and the necessity of a global focus on energy efficiency.
The "Maritime Cyprus 2023" conference is scheduled to conclude on October 11.
