Filenews 5 May 2021
The Cyprus Association of Tourism Writers & Journalists in a statement calls for the re-launch of the competition for a ferry link between Cyprus and Greece.
It takes the view that the reasons for the non-response of shipping companies to the public tender organised by Cyprus should be analysed, under the current economic, maritime and political conditions, and that the tender should be re-launched as soon as possible.
Stating that shipping is a national wealth since it is an important pillar of the development of the Cypriot economy, the Association adds that the further development of this sector makes Cyprus a modern, efficient and integrated maritime centre with the possibility of presence and active involvement in decisions taken by international organisations and the European Union on these issues.
"With the ferry connection, Cyprus ceases to be cut off from Greece, the rest of Europe and the surrounding region, creates a new dynamic and expands... Cyprus access to Europe. The maritime link can gradually be extended to other countries such as Israel, Lebanon and Egypt, thus offering the possibility for other future cooperation opportunities, such as dual destination tourist packages, to gain additional economic advantages," he added.
It is also stated that today, if a foreigner is interested in ferrying to Cyprus with other countries, he will be disappointed to learn that the only connection that exists is between Turkey and our occupied territories, with any political and maritime consequences or complications this entails.
It is also mentioned that the multiple economic benefits in many areas from the Cyprus-Greece ferry connection are data, as is the national, cultural and social dimension of the issue. "The great efforts made by Ministries, the Ministry of Shipping, the Cyprus-Greece Business Association, and other bodies should not be abandoned," the Association adds.
In conclusion, the Association states that since this line appears at first sight to be a barren and unprofitable business, then it should start with a subsidy with terms and incentives that attract business interest.
Eyenews/AFP
