Cyprus Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis traveled to Saudi Arabia on September 2, 2025, to speak at the second edition of the Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference in Jeddah. Her visit aims to boost ties between the two nations in shipping, including meetings with top officials and industry leaders to explore new partnerships.
Conference Highlights and Role
The conference, which kicks off on September 3, focuses on sustainable practices in the maritime sector. Hadjimanolis will address key topics like green shipping innovations and global trade challenges.
This event draws experts from around the world to discuss reducing carbon emissions in shipping. Cyprus, known for its strong maritime registry, sees this as a chance to share expertise on eco-friendly vessel operations.
Organizers expect over 500 attendees, including policymakers and business executives. Hadjimanolis plans to highlight Cyprus’s role in advancing sustainable maritime standards.
Key Meetings on the Agenda
During her stay, Hadjimanolis will meet Saudi Transport Minister Saleh Al Jasser. They will talk about joint projects in logistics and port development.
She also has sessions lined up with Saudi-based shipping company representatives. These talks could lead to deals on vessel registration and trade routes.
Such meetings build on growing interest in Middle East-Europe shipping links. Cyprus offers a strategic spot for Saudi firms looking to expand westward.
The discussions may cover training programs for maritime workers. Both sides want to align on international rules for safer and cleaner seas.
Background of the Invitation
This trip follows Al Jasser’s visit to Cyprus in late August 2024. He toured the Eurogate Container Terminal in Limassol and met local leaders.
That visit sparked talks on Cyprus as a trade hub connecting the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe. It set the stage for deeper cooperation in shipping.
Cyprus has ramped up its global outreach in 2025. Hadjimanolis attended events in Oman, Qatar, and Egypt earlier this year to promote the nation’s flag.
Recent data shows Cyprus ranks among the top 10 ship registries worldwide, with over 1,000 vessels flying its flag. Saudi Arabia aims to grow its maritime sector under Vision 2030.
Opportunities for Collaboration
Hadjimanolis aims to promote Cypriot shipping strengths, like efficient registry services and tax benefits. Saudi firms could benefit from these for fleet expansion.
Potential areas include joint ventures in renewable energy for ships, such as LNG and hydrogen fuels. Both countries face similar Red Sea trade disruptions.
Experts predict these ties could increase bilateral trade by 15 percent in the next two years. Cyprus’s EU membership adds value for Saudi exporters.
To outline the main goals:
- Strengthen maritime partnerships through shared technology.
- Explore investment in port infrastructure.
- Promote sustainable practices to meet global emission targets.
- Boost job creation in shipping-related fields.
Broader Impact on Global Shipping
This visit ties into worldwide efforts for greener oceans. The International Maritime Organization pushes for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Cyprus and Saudi Arabia could lead in regional initiatives. Their collaboration might inspire similar pacts in the Mediterranean and Gulf areas.
Recent events, like the UN conference on landlocked countries in August 2025, show Cyprus’s active role in inclusive trade policies. Hadjimanolis spoke there on human-centered development.
A quick look at recent Cyprus-Saudi maritime milestones:
| Date | Event | Key Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| August 2024 | Al Jasser’s Cyprus visit | Toured Limassol terminal, discussed trade hub potential |
| February 2025 | Hadjimanolis’s Middle East trips | Promoted Cyprus shipping in Oman and Qatar |
| July 2025 | Meeting with Arab Academy president | Explored education ties in maritime tech |
| September 2025 | Jeddah conference | Focus on sustainable industry collaboration |
These steps reflect a push for stronger economic links amid global supply chain shifts.
What do you think about these growing ties? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article along to others interested in international shipping news.
