Cyprus and Greece strengthen maritime ties with Japan

Government officials from Cyprus and Greece are currently in Tokyo conducting a series of high-level meetings to bolster maritime cooperation with the Japanese shipping industry. Shipping Deputy Minister of Cyprus Marina Hadjimanolis hosted a reception on October 16, 2026, aimed at promoting the Cyprus ship registry and fostering new business partnerships. She is also scheduled to participate in the 5th Capital Link Japan Maritime Forum, where she will discuss maritime policy and international competitiveness alongside Polys Hajioannou, president of the Cyprus Union of Shipowners.

Parallel to these events, Greek Shipping Minister Vassilis Kikilias held talks with representatives of the Japanese Shipowners’ Association, including vice-president Masanori Kato and secretary-general Yasuhiro Shinohara. The discussions focused on energy transition, the impact of armed conflicts on global trade, and the necessity for balanced International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations. Minister Kikilias emphasized the strategic importance of the Greece-Japan partnership for international shipping and trade stability. He has extended an official invitation for Japanese representatives to visit Greece for follow-up negotiations aimed at deepening their commercial relationship. These simultaneous efforts highlight a concerted push by the two Mediterranean nations to solidify their standing within the Japanese maritime market.