On October 19, 2021, the Cyprus Marine Club (CMC) hosted its 3rd Annual Interview with key figures in the shipping industry at Gazebo, Limassol. This event featured Mr. Loukas Hajioannou, CEO and Chairman of Safe Bulkers, Inc., a global shipping company founded in 2008, which specializes in seaborne transportation within the dry bulk sector and operates from multiple countries, including Cyprus and Greece.
Captain Eberhard Koch, President of the CMC, expressed his delight over the record attendance, noting that the event attracted 130 participants, the highest in the club’s history. He highlighted positive membership growth, introducing three new Corporate Members and welcoming Steamship Mutual Insurance Agency as a Platinum Sponsor and DESMI as an Iridium Sponsor.
A special ceremony recognized H.E. Deputy Shipping Minister V. Demetriades as an Honorary Member of the club, with President Koch presenting him with an appreciation plaque. The interview was moderated by Ms. Julia Paczkowska, General Secretary of the CMC, who guided Mr. Hajioannou through approximately twenty probing questions.
During the interview, Mr. Hajioannou discussed the history and global operations of Safe Bulkers, revealing his business philosophy and insights into market predictions, regulatory impacts, and initiatives affecting the maritime sector. He emphasized the challenges and opportunities within the Cypriot Shipping Registry and outlined Safe Bulkers’ commitment to maintaining a modern fleet and providing high-quality services to esteemed charterers.
Key topics addressed included the benefits of the Cyprus Registry, the latest trends and regulations in the shipping industry, and initiatives aimed at enhancing maritime education—specifically Safe Bulkers’ scholarships for young Cypriots. Mr. Hajioannou also shared insights into the International Maritime Organization’s credibility and the Cyprus Union of Shipowners’ stance on the EU Emission Trading System.
The engaging session concluded at 7:30 PM, sparking further discussions among attendees during the subsequent cocktail hour and buffet, which lasted late into the evening. The event demonstrated the vibrant community within the Cyprus maritime industry, which promotes networking among ship owners, managers, service providers, and other stakeholders.
The CMC, as a non-profit organization, continues to foster camaraderie and collaboration among various maritime industry players, celebrating the achievements and initiatives that contribute to the growth of the Cypriot maritime sector. The successful event underscored the club’s commitment to engaging with industry leaders and facilitating meaningful conversations.
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