Mediterranean Shipping Powers Unite; Cyprus Sees 10% FDI Rise

In Limassol, Cyprus, Greece, Malta and Italy signed a joint declaration to strengthen their collective voice on European shipping competitiveness and decarbonisation. The meeting, held at the Parklane Hotel, was hosted by Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis and attended by Greece’s Vassilis Kikilias, Malta’s Chris Bonett and Italy’s Edoardo Rixi (online). The declaration reflects shared concerns about the future of European shipping and the challenge of reducing emissions, aiming to influence policy in Brussels and at the International Maritime Organisation. Meanwhile, President Nikos Christodoulides announced that foreign direct investment in Cyprus grew 10 % in 2025, underscoring the country’s ambition to become a hub for investment, technology and trade. The announcement follows a broader push to attract higher‑value sectors such as ICT and fintech, while the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry calls for a review of competitiveness after the tech firm BrainRocket closed its Limassol offices. New housing schemes also aim to expand affordable options for families.