Cyprus hosts ministerial conference on seafarer welfare in Limassol

The Shipping Deputy Ministry of Cyprus hosted a high-level ministerial and stakeholders conference in Limassol as part of the country’s maritime agenda during its Presidency of the Council of the EU. The event, held on April 28, focused on the theme 'Investing in Seafarers: Securing the Future of Global Shipping'. Policymakers, international organizations, and industry leaders discussed maritime education, training, labor shortages, and crew welfare amidst geopolitical instability. Key attendees included Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis, Andreas Hadjipetrou of Columbia Group, and Captain Iro Gidakou of Maran Gas Maritime Inc. Representatives from the Cyprus Union of Shipowners and various maritime offices also participated. The conference highlighted the necessity of international cooperation to address the evolving regulatory landscape and the recruitment of future maritime personnel. Additionally, the event served to emphasize the role of mentorship in fostering the next generation of industry leaders. Participants addressed the broader challenges currently pressuring the global maritime sector.