The Cyprus Shipping Registry recently celebrated a significant milestone, marking its 60th anniversary at an event held at the Great Britain Hotel in Athens, Greece. The registry has been a key player in global shipping activities, with a strategy centered on responsible and sustainable growth.
The celebration underscored the deep-rooted connection between the Greek and Cypriot maritime sectors, with numerous Greek shipowners in attendance. These shipowners have played a crucial role in expanding the Cypriot shipping network, demonstrating the strong bonds between the two naval communities.
Ioannis Koustas has contributed to this legacy by registering seven freight vessels under the Cypriot flag. Another notable supporter, George Prokopiou, was recognized for his fleet’s contribution, which accounts for 3.5 percent of the Cypriot registry and boasts an impressive average age of five years. Prokopiou’s fleet was also the first to introduce advanced ice-class LNG carriers to Cyprus.
Polis Vasou Hatdjiioannou emphasized that the Cypriot registry should be the top choice for Greek shipowners due to its quality and potential for playing a major role in the future. The support for the registry continues to grow, with more shipowners joining the ranks.
The event also saw attendance from prominent maritime figures such as Captain Panayiotis Tsakos and Petros Pappas, reinforcing the widespread support for the Cypriot registry.
Marina Hadjimanoli, Deputy Minister of Shipping, expressed gratitude to Greek shipping leaders for their support and highlighted the registry’s commitment to service improvement and sustainability. She praised the collective effort that has elevated the Cypriot merchant fleet to one of the largest and most reputable in the world.
Hadjimanoli also detailed the advantages of the Cyprus Registry, including a competitive tonnage tax system and dedication to safety, efficiency, and adaptability. She announced green incentives to encourage ships to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with significant tonnage tax reductions for sustainable shipping practices starting January 2024.
In conclusion, Hadjimanoli acknowledged the contributions of Cypriot maritime veterans and the support of the Cyprus Shipowners’ Association. She envisioned a sector ready for future successes, driven by decades of commitment and the community’s passion and perseverance.
