The Cyprus Port Authority (CPA) continues its efforts to regain full control of Larnaca Port, having assumed its management from midnight on Monday, following the termination of the concession agreement with Kition Ocean Holdings for the €1.2 billion investment.
So far, as stated by the President of the CPA, Zenonas Apostolou, everything is progressing smoothly, and there is a collaboration with Kition to ensure uninterrupted service provision and the smooth operation of all vessels. “There are some pending issues that the company is handling until they fully vacate the premises,” Apostolou noted, adding that one of these is the ‘Amalthea‘ aid initiative and, specifically, the servicing of a ship bound for Gaza.
“It’s an American ship that is being loaded. We estimate that the ship will depart tonight. Amalthea is currently being handled by Kition, and once the ship leaves, it will be under the full control of the Port Authority,” he said.
Transition and Reinforcement
The CPA has already started procuring services from private companies, as the equipment belongs to Kition. Additionally, the existing CPA staff in Larnaca Port has been reinforced with personnel transferred from the Nicosia headquarters and Limassol Port.
“Where we identify a need for further reinforcement, we will bring in more staff from Nicosia and Limassol. However, there was already CPA staff at the port, including a director,” he added.
Apostolou further indicated that the CPA will work towards attracting new cruise ships to the port, noting that preparations are underway for the upcoming arrival of a cruise ship on May 31.
The government’s decision to terminate the concession reportedly stemmed from delays and disagreements with Kition. This move brings Larnaca Port back under state control.
