Deputy Minister of Shipping, Vassilis Demetriades has said that a strong shipping ensures an energy independent Europe.

Speaking to the press on the sidelines of the “Maritime Cyprus 2022” Conference that takes place in Limassol, he said that this year's participation has exceeded previous ones, with more than 900 delegates from 35 countries, adding that delegates have praised Cyprus's efforts to develop the sector and its positive contribution to global shipping through actions and initiatives and through its national strategy.

He welcomed the presence at the conference of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization and the European Transport Commissioner, as well as other important personalities of global shipping, saying that their presence in Cyprus is an indication of the importance of Cypriot shipping.

Shipping, he pointed out, must become greener, contribute to addressing climate change, adding that at the same time, regulatory authorities and industry, must work to maintain its competitiveness.

Particularly in Europe, he continued, "a strong shipping ensures what we all have to strive for, an energy-independent Europe, with an economy without fossil fuels, a green economy, which will be able to address future challenges."

Cyprus, he pointed out, is the only country that has implemented green tax incentives to enable ship owners and ship operators, through their practices, to reduce emissions of pollutants, and said that in the coming period we will also take initiatives so that to form global solutions in shipping at an international level.

Asked whether delegates have expressed concerns about the energy crisis, the Deputy Minister said that there are thoughts as to whether the efforts to decarbonise shipping should be accelerated or slowed down because of the Ukrainian crisis and sanctions.