Cyprus, Suez Canal eye collaboration on green shipping, trade security

Lieutenant General Osama Rabie, head of the Suez Canal Authority, met Cyprus’ Deputy Shipping Minister, Marina Hadjimanolis, in Ismailia on Tuesday to discuss collaboration on sustainable maritime practices and the impact of Red Sea tensions on global trade.

Opening the talks, Rabie emphasised the authority’s aim to “enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange of expertise” with Cyprus, given the longstanding ties between the two nations.

He noted the authority’s commitment to maintaining “direct channels of communication with partners” and advancing the canal’s role in sustainable maritime transport, aiming to declare it a ‘Green Canal’ by 2030.

Rabie also outlined recent upgrades in maritime services, such as “ship maintenance, maritime rescue, pollution control, and crew change services,” all geared toward positioning the Suez Canal as a regional hub for world-class logistics.

Minister Hadjimanolis expressed appreciation for the SCA’s efforts to “ensure the regularity of navigation” amidst regional challenges and underscored the need for “concerted international efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and maritime safety.”

She emphasised Cyprus’ incentives for eco-friendly vessels, including “discounts on services” and promotion of Cypriot flag licensing, reinforcing her country’s readiness to work with the SCA on sustainability.

After their meeting, the Cypriot delegation toured the New Suez Canal and visited the Suez Canal Museum to view exhibits on the canal’s historic role in global trade.