Cyprus Strengthens Shipping Ties Across Major Asian Markets

Cyprus Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis led a series of high-level meetings and industry events in Japan, China, and South Korea from October 13-29. The aim was to promote Cyprus as an international maritime centre and attract interest in its shipping registry. Hadjimanolis participated in international shipping conferences, met with government officials and industry representatives, and highlighted Cyprus' shipping register. In Japan, she organised a dedicated event in Tokyo and participated in the Capital Link Japan Maritime Forum. In China, she attended the North Bund Forum in Shanghai and met with Transport Minister Liu Wei. In South Korea, she participated in World Maritime Day activities and delivered an address at Korea Maritime Week 2026. The visits resulted in several key developments, including the naming of the M/V KYPROS ISLAND, a methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier, at the Tsuneishi shipyard in Zhoushan. The vessel will sail under the Cyprus flag, marking an important step in the country's shipping registry's technological development and renewal.