Cyprus` shipping would be ranking even higher worldwide if Turkey did not place obstacles, which adversely affect Cyprus and the development of its shipping industry, President of the Republic Demetris Christofias said on Friday.
In an address at the 23rd Annual General Assembly of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, in Limassol, which was read out by Minister of Communications and Works Efthymios Flourentzou, President Christofias expressed optimism regarding the economy, saying that the prospects were positive, and also said he was certain that Cyprus` shipping industry would have a bright future.
President Christofias noted that Cyprus has become established as a global shipping power and that the government`s aim was to provide incentives in order to improve Cyprus` outstanding position.
Regarding piracy, President Christofias said the Council of Ministers had already approved a bill that has been tabled at the House of Representatives, which would address the problem.
He called on Turkey to meet its obligations towards the EU and Cyprus in order to proceed with its EU accession negotiations.
The President pointed out that this would greatly assist in improving the climate at talks for a solution of the Cyprus problem and would create prospects for a comprehensive settlement.
President Christofias also referred to the new tax system, which he described as “an important development,“ noting that it was yet another measure to boost Cyprus` shipping and subsequently its economy.
He sent a message of optimism regarding the economy, saying that, “although we are going through a tough period, as is the rest of Europe,“ the prospects for Cyprus` economy were “positive.“
Cyprus has one of the largest fleets worldwide and its shipping industry is a source of income to the local economy. Cyprus, which joined the EU in 2004, has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks are currently underway with an aim to reunify the island.