Ways to further collaborate in areas of mutual interest were discussed during the visit of Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser, to the general cargo and cruise terminal of DP World Limassol.

The Minister was hosted in the morning by Cyprus's Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Alexis Vafeadis, and Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hatzimanoli. The visit included a tour of Limassol Port and the passenger terminal, where discussions centered on strengthening the ties between the two countries.

In his statements, the Saudi Minister of Transport expressed his pleasure and satisfaction with the visit and hospitality in Cyprus, describing the meeting as constructive in identifying potential areas for cooperation.

"The two countries already enjoy strong ties and close cooperation within the international community, particularly in transportation, as we collaborate within the International Maritime Organization and other international bodies," he added.

He further noted that through fruitful discussions on areas of mutual interest in shipping, they look forward to concluding consultations for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). He also mentioned ongoing efforts to establish a direct air connection between the two countries.

Al-Jasser emphasized that, under Saudi Arabia's "Vision 2030" program and the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics, the country aims to build close partnerships and connectivity with other nations. He stated that "Cyprus, as a friendly country with which we enjoy strong ties, should be one of our potential partners."

On his part, Cyprus’s Minister of Transport, Alexis Vafeadis, thanked his Saudi counterpart for the visit and his interest, noting that the Saudi delegation had the opportunity to be briefed on the services and infrastructure at Limassol Port.

Additionally, during their meeting in Nicosia, they discussed postal service issues, common challenges, and how cooperation between the two countries could help address them.

"I believe there is scope for collaboration to improve our bilateral relations, and we hope that what we started today will continue, giving us the opportunity to further develop this cooperation for the benefit of the people of both countries," Vafeadis concluded.

Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hatzimanoli, also expressed her hope for deepening the relations between Cyprus and Saudi Arabia in shipping matters, describing the discussions as productive.

"We emphasized various matters of mutual interest between the two countries and discussed identifying common actions and initiatives related to maritime transport," Hatzimanoli said.

She also mentioned that they discussed the promotion of consultations to finalize the Memorandum of Understanding, which both sides will sign, expressing her confidence that the excellent cooperation and support between the two countries within the International Maritime Organization will continue.