Cyprus calls for fair EU transport policy to support island states

Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Thursday that Cyprus remains committed to supporting a fair European transport policy and helping shape a strong and safe maritime policy that reflects the needs of all EU member states, particularly islands and geographically remote areas.

Speaking at the opening of the 4th European Maritime Space Forum in Limassol, Vafeades said the need for a reliable, robust and interconnected European transport network had become even more pressing at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and repeated disruptions to global supply chains. 

“The need for a reliable, robust and interconnected transport network has never been more evident,” the minister said, adding that maritime links are fundamental to the stability and resilience of Europe’s wider transport system. 

He described shipping as being “at the heart” of European connectivity and cohesion, rather than a regional component of the bloc’s transport framework. 

Vafeades also stressed that, for island states such as Cyprus, the European Maritime Space is essential because it strengthens links with other EU member states, supports the economy, allows the free movement of people and goods, and improves the ability to respond collectively in times of emergency. 

He also described the continued development and implementation of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) as crucial, while stressing that the policy must consider the circumstances of each EU country, especially those in more isolated parts of the Union. 

“It is important to strengthen the maritime dimension of the TEN-T,” he said, adding that sea routes and other means of transport must be able to work seamlessly together. 

According to Vafeades, this requires port modernisation, stronger last-leg connections and a reduction in administrative obstacles that continue to cause delays. 

Referring to the EU ports strategy, the minister said it provides a useful framework for promoting European ports as key parts of the wider transport system. 

He added that his ministry is ready to contribute to discussions on the strategy during the informal ministerial council to be held under the Cyprus Presidency, with the aim of ensuring that the priorities of all member states, “especially island states”, are properly taken into account. 

Vafeades also said recent developments in the region had underlined the need for ports and infrastructure capable of responding not only to everyday requirements but also to emergencies. 

For island states, he added, that dual role is particularly important, since ports and airports act as the main gateways for aid, logistics and mobility, especially in sensitive areas such as the Eastern Mediterranean. 

“Strengthening these gateways is essential for both national and European interests,” the minister said. 

He also stressed the importance of continued investment in a resilient and sustainable maritime transport system, warning that climate change, extreme weather events and other disruptions require diversified routes, robust infrastructure and effective contingency planning. 

Vafeades further pointed to the need for stronger cooperation between member states, better alignment between national and EU policies, and more strategic use of financial instruments to support greater and more sustainable investment in maritime infrastructure. 

While current support has proved beneficial, he added, it now “needs to be increased, streamlined and adapted to evolving needs”.

At the same time, the minister said “progress towards greener and more sustainable ports remains a top priority”.

He added that “decarbonising maritime transport requires investment in port electrification, onshore energy provision, clean energy infrastructure and alternative fuels”.

“Supporting ports as energy hubs capable of integrating renewable energy sources and enabling low and zero-emission operations is crucial,” Vafeades said, linking that effort both to the bloc’s climate goals and to the competitiveness of the European maritime sector. 

Referring to the forum itself, he said “it offers an opportunity to address these challenges and work towards practical solutions, so that the European Maritime Space can continue to play a key role in connecting, protecting and supporting all EU countries”.

“Cyprus remains ready to support a transparent and fair European transport policy that values the maritime sector and responds to the needs of islands and remote areas, while helping shape a strong and safe maritime policy for the Union as a whole,” he concluded.