Mediterranean shipping nations sign declaration to boost sector competitiveness

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, representatives from Cyprus, Greece, Malta, and Italy met in Limassol for a maritime summit to coordinate policies on European shipping. The meeting, hosted at the Parklane Hotel, included Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis, Greek Minister Vassilis Kikilias, and Malta’s Minister Chris Bonett. Italy’s Deputy Minister Edoardo Rixi participated online, with Italian Ambassador Antonella Cavallari attending in person.

The participating countries, which together represent 75% of the European Union's merchant fleet, signed a joint declaration aimed at protecting the competitiveness of the sector. The discussions focused on EU maritime regulations, including the Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and decarbonisation goals set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The signatories argued for realistic policies that do not impose excessive financial burdens on businesses and families.

This "3+1" format marks the first time Italy has joined the longstanding tripartite cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, and Malta. Following the session, Minister Hadjimanolis highlighted the importance of a unified front to strengthen the influence of Mediterranean nations in Brussels. The summit concluded with the adoption of a formal document intended to guide the four nations' future lobbying efforts on global and EU shipping matters.