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Cyprus Strengthens Global Maritime Footprint Amid Strategic EU Council Presidency

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 23, 2026

Pressing Maritime Initiatives In London

Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis recently attended critical meetings in London, reinforcing the nation’s role at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and setting the stage for its EU Council presidency. Speaking on LGR 103.3 FM Greek Radio London, she recalled her student years in the United Kingdom—a time when Greek radio provided a heartfelt reminder of home.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties And Addressing Global Shipping Challenges

During her visit, the Deputy Minister engaged in a high-level bilateral meeting with UK counterpart Keir Mather. The dialogue focused on enhancing Cyprus-UK relations amid prevailing global shipping challenges, while also briefing on the strategic priorities of Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council presidency. Additionally, in discussions with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, plans were outlined to coordinate maritime initiatives aligned with Cyprus’s term, signaling the nation’s readiness to influence the future direction of global shipping.

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Economic Significance And The Cultural Bridge

Hadjimanolis emphasized that shipping, which contributes more than 7% to Cyprus’ GDP—roughly €2.5 billion—is not only an economic pillar but also a vital cultural bridge. She underscored the role of the Cypriot and Greek diaspora as ambassadors who amplify Cyprus’ message on the international stage. Her narrative was both personal and poignant, interweaving memories of her displaced roots with her lifelong commitment to public service and social progress.

Advancing Digitalisation And Global Competitiveness

Under her leadership, the Deputy Ministry has embarked on a major digitalisation program aimed at streamlining administrative processes for ship operators. This initiative, which will enable electronic certification and more efficient crew management, is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2026. Concurrently, Cyprus continues to prioritize competitiveness in a global market where even minimal disruptions can have extensive ripple effects.

Evolving Maritime Education And Promoting Gender Equality

The recently concluded Maritime Cyprus 2025 conference marked a milestone, attracting over 1,000 delegates from more than 35 countries and featuring high-level participation from EU Commissioners and international shipping ministers. The event underscored new collaborative opportunities, particularly with Gulf nations, and reaffirmed government commitment to an evolving maritime industry.

Addressing gender imbalances in a traditionally male-dominated field, Hadjimanolis detailed ongoing initiatives such as the annual Gender Equality Award and educational outreach programs designed to attract more women to maritime careers. These measures, alongside strategic partnerships with educational institutions, aim to secure a future of innovative and inclusive maritime operations.

A Strategic Vision For The Future

Looking ahead, Cyprus plans to make shipping a central pillar of its EU Council presidency. Future frameworks, including the anticipated Nicosia Declaration, will focus on modernising maritime education, retraining seafarers, and bolstering women’s participation. The government’s strategic roadmap also includes forging closer ties with Gulf countries and India, further solidifying Cyprus’s prominent place on the world maritime map.

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New Operating Hours Law To Transform Cyprus Hospitality Industry

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 16, 2026

Legislative Overhaul Targets Sectoral Modernization

The parliamentary Energy Committee is reviewing a proposal that could significantly reshape operating hours for hospitality and entertainment venues across Cyprus. The initiative also includes provisions for the establishment of recreational centres and is intended to close existing regulatory gaps while strengthening the competitiveness of the tourism and dining industries.

Industry Categorization and Operational Adjustments

The draft law introduces a new classification of service venues and adjusts operating schedules according to season. Following strong reactions from professional associations and other stakeholders, the government revised the bill before its submission for closed-door committee discussions. In line with parliamentary procedure, the detailed debate and final amendments will be decided exclusively by elected members of parliament.

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Seasonal Flexibility And Specific Amendments

Under the revised proposal, pubs and bars would operate on different seasonal timetables. From May 1 to September 30, opening hours would run from 7:00 AM to 2:30 AM on weekdays and Sundays, with an extension until 3:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. From October 1 to April 30, weekday and Sunday operations would end at 2:00 AM, while weekend hours would extend until 3:00 AM. These changes replace earlier rules that allowed restaurants, taverns, cafés, pizzerias and snack bars to operate from 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM.

Refined Hours For Entertainment Venues

The legislation also sets updated schedules for event halls, reception venues and music or dance centres. During the summer period, these establishments would be permitted to operate from 8:00 PM to 2:30 AM on weekdays and Sundays, with later closing times on weekends. In winter, weekday and Sunday operations would end at 2:00 AM, again with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Earlier drafts proposed uniform early closures, but the revised version introduces more flexibility to better reflect market demand.

Local Authority Flexibility

Municipal councils would retain the right to temporarily adjust operating hours for recreational venues for up to six months per year. This provision is designed to give local authorities room to respond to tourism peaks, festivals or regional economic needs while maintaining a consistent national framework.

Final approval of the reform is expected to come from the full House of Representatives, with the bill scheduled for submission before the April session ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.