Sep142025

The Executive Committee of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK hosted a working dinner on Sunday, 14th September in honor of the Deputy Minister of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus. Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis attended the dinner along with her associates as part of her working visit to London.

Welcoming the Minister, the Federation’s President, Christos Karaolis praised the Republic of Cyprus’ “significant maritime industry for its economic and strategic importance”. He also thanked the Minister for her ongoing support. In turn, Ms. Hadjimanolis emphasised that the presence of the Cypriot diaspora in the UK is invaluable. She notably stated that the diaspora strengthens ties and acts as the best ambassador of Cyprus, including the maritime industry.

Ms. Hadjimanolis also highlighted the excellent cooperation between Cyprus and the United Kingdom in the field of shipping. She said “It is a relationship based on mutual trust and strategic benefit for both countries. Of particular importance is the Memorandum of Understanding maintained between Cyprus and the UK.”

Additionally, Ms. Hadjimanolis stressed the importance of strengthening ties with the Commonwealth, by implementing the Memorandum of Understanding signed for the establishment of a Commonwealth Blue Charter Centre of Excellence in Cyprus.

Furthermore, Ms. Hadjimanolis placed special emphasis on the fact that “shipping is one of the main pillars of the Cypriot economy, with Cyprus holding the 11th largest shipping fleet in the world and the 3rd largest in Europe.” She went on to say that “Cyprus has evolved into a modern, efficient, and comprehensive maritime center, ranking as one of the top three ship management centers globally and the largest in Europe. Revenue from ship management in the second half of 2024 totaled €916 million, with the sector’s contribution from the UK amounting to €27.5 million. Major shipping companies based in the UK are active in Limassol, choosing the Cypriot flag for their vessels.”

The Deputy Minister of Shipping was accompanied by the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to the United Kingdom, Dr. Kyriacos Kouros, the Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Spyros Miltiadis, and the Consul Mr. Odysseas Odysseos.