India and Cyprus have held the first meeting of their Joint Maritime Committee, focusing on maritime cooperation, investment and green shipping…reports Asian Lite News Desk
India and Cyprus have held the first meeting of their Joint Maritime Committee (JMC), opening a new chapter in maritime cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting took place in Limassol on September 29 under the 2017 bilateral Agreement on Merchant Shipping. It was co-chaired by Venkatesapathy S, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) in India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Theodoulos Mesimeris, Acting Permanent Secretary in Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Ministry.
The High Commission of India in Nicosia described the meeting as a new chapter in India-Cyprus maritime cooperation in a post on X.
India’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, Manish, and officials from the High Commission joined the Indian delegation during engagements with Cypriot maritime authorities and industry between September 28 and October 1. The delegation also included Deependra Singh Bisen, Deputy Director General in the Directorate General of Maritime Administration.
Discussions covered maritime education and training, investment opportunities, policy and strategy exchanges, and cooperation on matters of mutual interest at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
The Indian delegation also held meetings with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, leading shipping and maritime companies, the Cyprus Ports Authority and the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute. It also visited the Port of Limassol.
The talks explored opportunities in maritime services, shipping finance, ship repair and recycling, seafarer training and welfare, and green shipping.
Both sides also discussed preparations for a forthcoming visit to India by Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Minister, who is expected to travel with a maritime business delegation.
A Maritime Business Forum is planned in Mumbai in November 2026, where businesses from both countries are expected to explore partnerships and investment opportunities in the maritime sector.
The Indian High Commission said the JMC meeting forms part of the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan and reflects the shared commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides to deepen bilateral cooperation.
The latest engagement comes as India and Cyprus have increased high-level contacts and cooperation across various sectors.
The maritime sector is an important area of potential collaboration between the two countries, with the latest discussions focusing on commercial opportunities as well as training, seafarer welfare and the transition towards greener shipping.
The establishment of the JMC provides a structured mechanism for India and Cyprus to discuss maritime issues and identify areas for greater cooperation.
The planned business forum in Mumbai is also expected to provide an opportunity for companies and industry representatives from both countries to explore investment and commercial partnerships.
The latest talks underline efforts by India and Cyprus to strengthen bilateral cooperation through institutional mechanisms and greater engagement between government authorities and the maritime industry.
