Cyprus has developed into a modern, effective and comprehensive shipping hub and is now the biggest shipping management centre in Europe and one of the three largest in the world, Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanoli said on Saturday.
She was speaking at the opening of the fourth Thalassa festival in Limassol inaugurated by her and Greek Shipping Minister Christos Stylianides.
The event aimed to bring visitors closer to the sea culture of the city, with the opportunity to participate in workshops and gather information from 43 participating services and organisations.
Hadjimanoli said commercial shipping in Cyprus grew very fast and that maritime professions were among the careers of the future.
Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis said the city had developed into an international maritime and financial hub, with port facilities serving trade and maritime on an international level.
He added that the sea also determined the quality of life for Limassolians and the identity of the city.
The opening was followed by a display of vessels from the navy, the port and marine police, the fisheries and sea research department, VTS Vasiliko Terminal and P&O Maritime Logistics.
