The advantages of Cypriot shipping were mentioned today by the President of the Republic Mr.Nicos Christodoulides, speaking at the annual General Assembly of the Cyprus Chamber of Shipping held in Limassol.
In his address to the Assembly, the President of the Republic said, among other things, that from the first day of assuming office, the Government has designed a clear strategy to address the challenges in the shipping industry, but also to ensure and further promote the excellent performance of the Cypriot shipping sector.
He added that the establishment of the Deputy Ministry of Shipping has marked a new era in Cypriot shipping and expressed the belief that the way forward is based on a holistic approach and turning challenges into opportunities.
He also pointed out that the Government is determined to accelerate the process of implementing the "One-Stop Shipping-Centre", which has been a long-standing demand of the shipping industry.
Referring to the actions being rolled out, the President highlighted, among other things, the training of officials from relevant government departments in relation to the shipping industry to take on key roles in new agencies that will become operational. He also referred to the acceleration of the process for the preparation of relevant necessary maritime company legislation, digital transition and others.
He added that the aim is sustainable development and enhancing the competitiveness of the Cypriot flag, stressing that Cyprus has introduced tax incentives to support the green transition in Cypriot shipping, as well as the implementation of environmental practices by shipowners.
He also noted that Cyprus is in a very high position both at European and global level, namely 3rd in Europe, 11th globally and 1st as a management centre.
However, he noted, this position would be even higher if we did not address the illegal Turkish embargo on Cypriot ships, which is a flagrant violation of international and European law.
"We will continue to raise the issue of the illegal Turkish embargo in all relevant fora, including the EU, and we will continue to underline that the embargo hampers the interests of European shipping itself, but also affects global trade," President Christodoulides said.
Finally, the President assured that the Government is committed to work closely and productively with the Cyprus Chamber of Shipping and all stakeholders in order to secure the future of the sector and the Cypriot flag. He also noted that the Government will continue its efforts to maintain the competitiveness of the tax system in the shipping sector and to further improve the labour regime.
(PM/NG/SX)
Contents of this article including associated images are owned by PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source
