Hadjimanolis engages with shipping leaders to boost Cyprus registry

Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis recently embarked on a series of important meetings in Geneva, according to an official statement by the ministry released on Tuesday.

The statement noted that on June 20, Hadjimanolis visited Geneva with the express purpose of promoting the Cypriot ship registry.

Moreover, her visit included a series of high-level discussions aimed at bolstering Cyprus as a prime flagging destination for global shipping enterprises.

A key meeting was held with Gianluigi Aponte, founder and President of the MSC Group, the largest container shipping company in the world.

The discussions revolved around the latest developments in the global shipping industry and future expansions of MSC’s fleet.

“MSC is set to enhance its fleet with the addition of new, modern ships currently under construction,” noted in the statement.

The talks concluded with an agreement in principle that MSC would consider adding Cyprus-flagged vessels to its fleet, provided the Cypriot registry could meet the company’s rigorous standards and conditions.

Additionally, Hadjimanolis met with Pierfrancesco Vago, President of MSC Cruises, and other top executives to discuss potential enhancements in the cruise sector and explore further cooperation with the Ministry of Shipping.

The minister also engaged with the Swiss Shipowners’ Association, where she presented the competitive benefits and services offered by Cyprus.

This includes the advantages of establishing a shipping company on the island and the attractive features of the Cypriot tonnage tax system.