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Irish Family Celebrates Enduring Bond With Larnaca

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Honouring a Tradition of Loyalty

An Irish family has been formally recognised by Larnaca officials for their exceptional dedication to the city, marked by over 30 visits over the years. The municipality, in collaboration with its tourism development authority, acknowledged the Finn family as part of the ‘Larnaca’s Loyal Friends’ programme. This initiative celebrates long-term relationships with repeat visitors who contribute to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

A Legacy of Visits and Friendships

Peter and Bronagh Finn, together with their children John, Bronwyn, and Darren, have established deep-rooted connections with the local community. Despite the passage of time and the growth of their own families, the Finns persist in their commitment to Larnaca. Their frequent journeys are driven not only by the city’s scenic beaches and the charm of Ayios Theodoros village but also by a profound appreciation for the hospitality, safety, and relaxed atmosphere the city offers.

Strategic Recommendations for Year-Round Engagement

The family’s advocacy extends beyond personal sentiment. They have underscored the significance of direct Belfast–Larnaca flights, particularly during the autumn months, and have called for an extension of this service through the winter season. Such connectivity is anticipated to enhance year-round tourism and provide economic benefits reflective of modern travel trends.

Celebrating Authenticity and Cultural Richness

This recognition is a key component of Larnaca’s ‘Welcome Back’ initiative, which aims to reinforce the city’s reputation as a destination of enduring appeal. By honouring repeat visitors like the Finn family, Larnaca not only acknowledges its loyal patrons but also reinforces its commitment to offering an authentic and culturally rich experience that continues to draw travellers time and again.

Italy And Cyprus Deepen Maritime Cooperation With Limassol Business Forum

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Italy and Cyprus are stepping up cooperation in shipping, port development and maritime investment, with a business forum in Limassol bringing together policymakers, shipowners and industry leaders to explore new commercial opportunities.

The Italy-Cyprus Maritime Business Forum, organised by the Italian Embassy in Nicosia, will take place at 9 a.m. on Friday, October 9, at the DP World Cruise Terminal in Limassol. Discussions will focus on sustainable ports, shipping regulation and international maritime corridors, with three panels connecting public-sector priorities with private investment and industry expertise.

A Strategic Partnership For Maritime Growth

The forum aims to strengthen ties between shipowners, ship managers, shipyards, port operators, insurers and maritime service providers in the two countries, with a focus on infrastructure, technology and investment.

Shipping accounts for about 7% of Cyprus’ GDP, while the wider blue economy contributes roughly 25%, according to figures cited by the organisers. Beyond shipping, the sector includes coastal tourism, fisheries and aquaculture, making maritime development an important part of Cyprus’ broader economic strategy.

Italy offers complementary strengths in shipbuilding, maritime logistics and insurance. Its shipbuilding exports exceeded €5 billion in 2025, while Italian companies accounted for 56% of global superyacht orders by volume and 36% by value.

Together, the two countries bring different but complementary capabilities: Cyprus as an international shipping hub and Italy as a major source of industrial expertise, maritime technology and shipbuilding capacity.

From Maritime Links To Commercial Opportunities

Italian ambassador to Cyprus Antonella Cavallari said the two countries should use their longstanding maritime ties to build a broader economic partnership.

“The sea has always connected Italy and Cyprus, and today it can become the engine of an even more ambitious economic partnership,” she said.

Cavallari said the forum is intended to turn this potential into practical projects, including partnerships between companies, ports and port cities, while exploring future trade routes such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

Focus On Sustainable Ports And Shipping

The opening panel will examine how ports can support economic development while meeting European environmental requirements and integrating more effectively with surrounding cities.

A second session will focus on shipping management, regulatory compliance, maritime safety and industry best practices, bringing together representatives from shipowners, ship management companies, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and DP World Limassol.

The final panel will turn to international maritime cooperation and investment in ports and terminals, with particular attention to emerging shipping corridors and IMEC.

Cyprus’ Role In IMEC

Cyprus’ position within the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will be among the key topics of the final discussion. The initiative aims to improve connectivity between India, the Middle East and Europe and could create new opportunities for ports and logistics hubs across the region.

Rona Panteli, Cyprus’ IMEC representative and head of the Connectivity Unit at the Foreign Ministry, will join the discussion alongside representatives of the Port System Authority of the Eastern Adriatic Sea, Cyprus Ports Authority, Invest Cyprus and the Italian-Cypriot Chamber of Commerce.

Building A Broader Maritime Ecosystem

Beyond the formal panels, the forum is designed to connect Italian and Cypriot businesses and encourage partnerships across shipping, logistics and maritime services.

The event is organised with the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), the Italian-Cypriot Chamber of Commerce, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), Invest Cyprus, the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evel) and the Cyprus-Italy Business Association.

DP World and Limassol Municipality are supporting the event, which is being held under the auspices of the Shipping Deputy Ministry.

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