The upcoming meeting in Limassol on Sept. 9 will expand maritime cooperation between Cyprus, Greece and Malta, with Italy taking part for the first time. The meeting reflects Cyprus’ efforts to strengthen cooperation with other Mediterranean maritime states.
A Broader Maritime Alliance
Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis told the Cyprus News Agency that Italy’s participation follows efforts to deepen cooperation among key Mediterranean maritime states.
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According to Hadjimanolis, expanding the format is the result of “targeted and persistent efforts” to strengthen regional cooperation and Cyprus’ partnerships in the shipping sector.
Why Italy’s Participation Matters
Italy’s participation expands the dialogue among four countries facing common challenges in the maritime sector. Hadjimanolis’ visit to Rome at the invitation of her Italian counterpart also helped pave the way for Italy to join the upcoming meeting.
“Italy’s positive response confirms the shared view that the challenges facing shipping today require closer coordination, cooperation and common approaches,” she said.
Meeting Returns To Cyprus After Eight Years
The Sept. 9 meeting will be the ninth session of the trilateral framework and the first to take place in Cyprus in eight years. Cyprus last hosted the sixth meeting with Greece and Malta in 2018, while the most recent session was held in Greece in 2023.
Competitiveness, Decarbonization And Regulation On The Agenda
The meeting will focus on the competitiveness of European shipping, decarbonization and legislative and policy developments at the European level. Participants will also discuss issues expected to feature on the agenda of the International Maritime Organization and European Union institutions in the coming months.
“These are issues that will materially affect the future of shipping and require substantive dialogue among states with a strong maritime footprint,” Hadjimanolis said.
Four Maritime Hubs Coordinate On Common Issues
Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta are among the most significant shipping centers in Europe and globally, according to Hadjimanolis. Their discussions will focus on regulation, competitiveness and decarbonization as the four countries seek common positions on issues affecting the sector.
