Cyprus strengthened its maritime ties with Gulf nations during a recent conference in Saudi Arabia, where Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis represented the island nation. Hadjimanolis attended the 2nd Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference in Jeddah on September 3 and 4, at the invitation of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Supply Chain, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser.
Maritime ties: Key Participation in Global Maritime Dialogue
As the only European Union minister present, Hadjimanolis’s participation underscored the solid relationship between Cyprus and Saudi Arabia, along with Cyprus’s active engagement in the wider Gulf region. The conference featured discussions centred on the theme ‘Resilience, Cooperation, and Vision in a Changing World,’ attracting ministers and officials from various countries.
Commitment to a Sustainable Maritime Future
During her address, Hadjimanolis reaffirmed Cyprus’s dedication to creating a resilient and sustainable maritime sector. She stated, “The country is working to drive efforts toward a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready maritime sector.” This commitment aligns with global demands for innovation and inclusiveness in the maritime industry.
Emphasis on International Collaboration
One critical aspect of her speech was the necessity of stronger collaboration among nations, particularly within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and other relevant platforms. Hadjimanolis explained that such cooperation is crucial for enhancing efficiency, ensuring safer operations, and fostering innovation across the maritime sector.
Investing in Human Capital
Hadjimanolis also highlighted the vital role of upskilling and reskilling seafarers, whom she referred to as the backbone of the maritime industry. She called for increased investment in human resources to prepare personnel for the evolving demands of the sector.
Strengthening Bilateral Agreements
On the sidelines of the conference, Hadjimanolis met with Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Rumaih Al-Rumaih. The two reviewed progress on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) initially discussed in Qatar. Both officials expressed their intention to complete and sign the agreement promptly, demonstrating a mutual commitment to strengthening maritime relations.
Expanding Ties with Bahrain
A separate meeting with Bahrain’s Minister of Transport and Telecommunications, Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, also took place. The Bahraini minister expressed keen interest in enhancing bilateral maritime relations with Cyprus and proposed signing an MoU to formalise this cooperation. Their discussions set the stage for further collaboration at the Maritime Cyprus 2025 conference in Limassol, where both ministers are expected to reconvene.
Building Support for IMO Council Re-election
In addition to her high-level meetings, Hadjimanolis engaged with counterparts from Dominica, Sri Lanka, Liberia, Montenegro, and Somalia, seeking their support for Cyprus’s re-election to the IMO Council in the upcoming London elections in November. These efforts reflect Cyprus’s active pursuit of a more significant role in international maritime governance.
Promoting Trade and Community Engagement
During her visit, Hadjimanolis also stopped by the offices of Cyprus’ honorary consul in Jeddah, Mohamed Abdulkader M. Alfadl. Their discussions revolved around the Cypriot community in Saudi Arabia and prospects for enhancing trade and maritime ties, particularly focusing on the cruise sector. The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in fostering bilateral relations.
Diplomatic Support
Hadjimanolis was accompanied by Charis Moritsis, Cyprus’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, throughout her meetings. This diplomatic presence further exemplified Cyprus’s commitment to strengthening its ties in the Gulf region.
