The EU 28 debated maritime affairs and transports today in Luxembourg, endorsing conclusions on the priorities of EU maritime and transport policy up to 2020 on competitiveness, carbon emissions and digitisation.

In his intervention, Minister Dimitriades welcomed the initiative of the Maltese Presidency and stated that he was ready to work constructively and in cooperation with the other Member States, the European Commission, the industry and the social partners, to achieve the agreed goals.

Finally, the Minister intervened during a `28` working lunch, where his counterparts exchanged views on the consultations taking place at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

He stated, inter alia, that the strategy to be adopted by the IMO for the Greenhouse gas reduction, should be based on specific principles, in particular by ensuring that a level playing field is maintained and that the sustainable development of shipping continues.

Demetriades also noted the need for cooperation with third countries, taking into account the concerns of the small island and developing States.

Source: InCyprus