Cyprus Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades, along with Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis, provided a tour of the Limassol port and passenger terminal. They also engaged in discussions on strengthening the ties between the two nations.

In his statements following the visit, the Saudi Transport Minister expressed his pleasure and satisfaction with the visit and hospitality in Cyprus, describing the meeting as constructive for identifying potential areas of collaboration. “The two countries already enjoy strong ties and close cooperation in the international community regarding transportation,” he stated. “We work together in the International Maritime Organisation and other international organisations,” he added.

He also said that “fruitful discussions on mutual interests in maritime affairs” will lead to a finalisation of consultations for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Moreover, he mentioned efforts to establish a direct air link between the two countries. He further stated that as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme and National Transport Strategy, the country aims to build strong partnerships and connectivity with other nations. “Cyprus, as a friendly country with which we have strong ties, should be one of our potential partners,” he said.

For his part, Vafeades thanked his Saudi counterpart for the visit and interest, highlighting the opportunity for the Saudi delegation to learn about the services and infrastructure of Limassol port. Additionally, in a meeting between the two ministers in Nicosia, they explored matters related to postal services, identified shared challenges, and considered how enhanced cooperation between their countries could effectively address these issues. “I believe there is room for collaboration to enhance our bilateral relations, and we hope that what we have started today will continue, providing us the chance to further develop this cooperation for the benefit of the peoples of both countries,” Vafeades added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Hadjimanolis expressed her hope for deepening Cyprus-Saudi Arabia relations in maritime matters, noting the productive discussions held. “We focused on various areas of mutual interest and discussed finding common actions and initiatives related to maritime transport,” she said. She also mentioned that discussions included advancing consultations for the finalisation of the MoU to be signed by both parties, and expressed confidence that the excellent cooperation and support between the two countries in the International Maritime Organisation will continue.