The Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry and the UK’s Department for Transport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further strengthen shipping relations between the two countries.
The agreement includes a range of commitments designed to address current challenges faced by the shipping sector and aims to stimulate economic development on a mutually advantageous basis.
With a specific focus on driving progress in shipping’s response to climate change issues, the agreement foresees joint scientific and technical workshops, conferences, training programmes, seminars, and courses, amongst other initiatives, will be implemented to drive shipping towards its sustainability goals. Core focusses of the agreement also include maritime safety and security, and pollution from ships.
The two states are also committing to jointly address issues around piracy, fraudulent ship registrations, seafarer welfare and training, and the implementation of transport-related sanctions that impact the sector. Both parties pledge to promote cooperation in shipping within the framework of international and regional councils such as the IMO and the Commonwealth.
“Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of Cyprus’ vision,” said Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister, Vassilios Demetriades. “This MoU aligns with the extrovert pillar of the SDM’s strategy, which champions a joint approach to driving positive progress in the greater shipping sector while always safeguarding competitiveness.
“Cyprus looks forward to working closely with the UK, exchanging information on best practice when it comes to maritime governance, knowledge, research, and innovation. Furthermore, it is our hope that this partnership will accelerate the digitalization of ship operations, and, importantly, improve the resilience of the sector in terms of cyber security.”
British High Commissioner, Irfan Siddiq. Siddiq said, “This agreement marks a new chapter in relations between Cyprus and the UK, both of which have long and rich seafaring histories authorities to support maritime safety and security.”
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