- Ms. Hadjimanolis, could you please tell us about your personal journey leading up to your appointment as Shipping Deputy Minister by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides?
In February 2023, I was appointed, by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodulides, as the Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus. This appointment carries significant weight, given the strategic importance of this particular Ministry for Cyprus. Prior to this role, I served as the Director of the President-elect, Mr. Nikos Christodulides’ Political Office. On this occasion, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to President Christodoulides for his unwavering trust, by assigning me the crucial and vital Shipping Deputy Ministry, for the national economy. I am also deeply grateful for the ongoing support from both the President personally and the Government. Furthermore, my academic background in the United Kingdom, contributed to a smooth transition into this position, particularly my first degree in Law, and my second degree in Barrister at Law, specializing in International Trade Law & Shipping. Undoubtedly, my professional training and experience have been essential in fulfilling my responsibilities effectively.
- What are the most significant laws that have been enacted by the Shipping Deputy Ministry during your tenure so far?
The continuous updating of shipping legislation, is one of the key priorities of the Shipping Deputy Ministry as it plays a vital role in upgrading the safety and security of Cyprus flagged ships, in enhancing the protection of the marine environment and in strengthening the competitiveness of the Cyprus ship registry and the broader maritime cluster of Cyprus.
During my tenure and thus far, a total of 8 pieces of primary shipping legislation and 27 pieces of secondary legislation have been enacted.
In terms of national legislation, one of the most significant laws enacted is the Merchant Shipping (Implementation of European Union Decisions and Regulations on Certain Matters of Maritime Transport) Law of 2023 (Law 81(I)/2023). This Law establishes a specific national legislative framework for the more effective implementation of the existing and future EU Decisions and EU Regulations related to certain matters of maritime transport, i.e. essentially concerning directly effective EU Instruments on maritime safety and the protection of the environment.
A new piece of legislation is now in place, regulating matters concerning the declaration of safety zones around installations within the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf of the Republic of Cyprus and the issuing of licenses for the entry into such safety zones. These are the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Safety Zones) Regulations of 2024 (P.I. 121/2024) which repeal Regulations P.I. 257/2013.
National laws have also been enacted for the purposes of transposing into the national legal order Directives of the European Union which include Directive (EU) 2019/1159 on the minimum level of training of seafarers (Amendment Law 116(I)/2023) and Directive (EU) 2023/946 as regards the inclusion of improved stability requirements for ro-ro passenger ships (Amendment Law 99(Ι)/2024).
An amendment Law to the Merchant Shipping (Registration of Seafarers and Seafarers’ Register) Law has been enacted in order to, inter alia, provide for the issuance of the Seafarers Registry Certificate in digital form which will offer seafarers a faster, easier and more secure access to their Certificates.
There have been a number of legislative developments with regard to International Instruments as well, while a number of secondary pieces of legislation has been adopted for the implementation of the Maritime Spatial Planning legislation, the Protection of Cyprus Ships Against Acts of Piracy Law (in response to the Houthi attacks) and the Shipping Limited Liability Company Law.
- Do you have any significant events planned for the future that need to be implemented?
First and foremost, the Shipping Deputy Ministry is getting ready to launch, the digitalization of its services, in October 2025. Core services, like Seafarers Training and Certification, Tonnage Tax and Ship’s Registration, will be fully digitalized.
Moreover, the Shipping Deputy Ministry, has numerous events lined up during the upcoming months, all aiming at enhancing and promoting both Cyprus shipping, as well as its presence in European and International level.
A top priority for enhancing its global maritime presence, is Cyprus’s re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026-2027 term, which will secure its active role in international maritime decision-making. Cyprus has been an IMO member since 1987.
During the first six months of 2026, Cyprus will assume the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
During Cyprus’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union (CY PCY), the Shipping Deputy Ministry will host an informal ministerial meeting, gathering European Ministers responsible for Maritime Affairs. This important event will be held in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, where key stakeholders will come together to address crucial maritime topics. Maritime transport will be a key priority throughout Cyprus’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.
Along the same margins, Cyprus will be hosting the European Maritime Day from 21-22 of May 2026.
Overall, the upcoming events organized by the SDM, highlight Cyprus’s dedication to strengthening the global position of its maritime sector, fostering bilateral relationships with countries around the world, while adopting technological innovations, and promoting sustainable shipping practices.
- Madam Deputy Minister, how significant is Cyprus shipping in the global maritime landscape?
Cyprus has a very prominent role in the global maritime industry, one that goes far beyond its size as a country. Today, the Cyprus flag, ranks among the top merchant fleets worldwide and is the third largest in the EU. That in itself, is extremely important, but what really sets Cyprus apart, is its position as a leading shipmanagement centre. Companies based here, manage around 20% of the worlds fleet, which makes Cyprus and especially Limassol the largest maritime centre in Europe and one of the top three globally.
The sector is also a vital pillar of the Cyprus economy accounting for more than 7% of the GDP in terms of revenue, while supporting thousands of jobs both at sea and ashore.
There are clear reasons why Cyprus has been able to establish itself this way. Its EU approved tonnage tax system, its open registry and its strong reputation for quality and compliance, make it a highly attractive base for international shipping companies. On top of that of course, its location, knowhow, experienced shipping personnel, the legal system, and the robust economy play a significant role on the decision making of companies wishing to establish offices in Cyprus.
Cyprus’ strength in ship management, its regulatory leadership, and its forward-looking policies ensure that it remains one of the most significant maritime centers worldwide.
Equally important is the international dimension. Cyprus constitutes an active voice in global maritime decision-making, both within the European Union and at the International Maritime Organization. Despite its small size, it has built a reputation as a constructive and influential player, shaping discussions on issues like safety, environmental regulation, and the green transition. In this way, Cyprus not only provides services to world shipping but also helps to shape the rules and standards by which it operates.
What underpins all this is relevant strong political support. Shipping has always been a priority for the Government of Cyprus, regardless of the Administration in charge. The establishment of a dedicated Shipping Deputy Ministry reflects this commitment, ensuring that the sector has a direct voice in policy-making and the backing it needs to remain competitive.
- What is your opinion on the ongoing piracy and terrorist attacks on commercial vessels in the sensitive areas of the Indian Ocean?
The recent piracy and terrorist attacks in the Indian Ocean serve as a clear indication of the fragility of global shipping routes amid escalating geopolitical tensions. In my view, this is not only a security issue but also a critical test of the resilience of the international maritime system. The erosion of the global rules-based order adds further uncertainty and complexity to shipping operations and trade routes worldwide.
For Cyprus, the safety of our seafarers and vessels remains our highest priority. We are working closely with our European partners, the International Maritime Organization, and the shipping industry to strengthen coordinated responses, improve information sharing, and ensure that vessels flying the Cyprus flag receive timely guidance and support.
At the same time, I believe that maritime security cannot be pursued in isolation. It must be integrated with sustainability and competitiveness, underpinned by robust regulation and close collaboration across the industry. While the situation remains serious, Cyprus welcomes the diplomatic efforts that have contributed to de-escalating tensions. In my opinion, continued dialogue and cooperation are essential to restoring stability and preventing further deterioration that could impact both regional and global trade.
Although piracy remains a significant concern, Cyprus continues to adapt its strategies to address evolving threats, emphasizing comprehensive planning that harmonizes security, sustainability, and competitiveness for the maritime sector.
