**Cyprus Strengthens Maritime Diplomacy at IMO Reception in London**
Cyprus is reaffirming its commitment to international maritime cooperation during a reception held at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) headquarters in London. The event took place on the sidelines of the 137th IMO Council and was hosted by the Shipping Deputy Ministry, with notable attendance from IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and representatives from various member states.
Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of such events in fostering cooperation and camaraderie among nations. She noted that these informal settings allow for deeper connections beyond the formalities of negotiations and meetings, which are essential to the spirit of the IMO.
In her speech, Hadjimanolis highlighted Cyprus's long-standing maritime tradition and its significant role in global shipping. With one of the largest fleets registered under its flag, Cyprus is recognized as a maritime nation with a well-established maritime center that provides high-quality services across the sector. “Our success is closely linked to the work and values of the IMO,” she stated, reaffirming Cyprus's commitment to supporting the organization's objectives and collaborating constructively with all member states.
The reception comes at a critical time for the international shipping sector, which is facing challenges such as geopolitical instability, stringent decarbonization targets, safety concerns, and the protection of vital sea lanes. For Cyprus, shipping is a cornerstone of its economy, and Hadjimanolis previously noted that the sector is entering 2026 in a robust position despite global trade disruptions.
Cyprus has been proactive in keeping maritime policy at the forefront of its agenda, especially as it prepares for its upcoming EU Council Presidency. The island has also been leveraging its presence at the IMO to strengthen both bilateral and multilateral relations. Earlier in the year, Cyprus and the UK committed to enhancing maritime cooperation following discussions in London related to Cyprus’s role at the IMO.
Hadjimanolis's visit to London is part of a broader strategy to maintain Cyprus's visibility in international shipping decision-making, particularly amid ongoing regional crises that pose challenges to the industry. In March, she assured that Cyprus-flagged vessels were safe in the Gulf region while underscoring the broader risks that seafarers and shipping routes face.
During the IMO Council session, Hadjimanolis also engaged in a bilateral meeting with H.E. Eng. Fawaz Al-Sahli, President of Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority. The discussions focused on the latest developments in international shipping and the strong maritime relations between Cyprus and Saudi Arabia. Both parties expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation within the IMO and discussed the timely finalization and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on maritime cooperation, which aims to further solidify ties between the two nations in the maritime sector.
As Cyprus continues to navigate the complexities of global shipping, its participation in events like the IMO reception underscores its dedication to fostering international collaboration and addressing the pressing challenges facing the maritime industry today.