Representation of the Cyprus Shipping Industry at the European Maritime Safety Agency

The European Maritime Safety Agency is one of the decentralised agencies on the European Union, which is based in Lisbon. EMSA since 2002, has been providing technical assistance and support to the European Commission and Member States in the development and implementation of EU legislation on maritime safety, pollution by ships and maritime security. It has also been given operational tasks in the field of oil pollution response, vessel monitoring and in long range identification and tracking of vessels.

During a recent session, the College of EU Commissioners, has approved a nomination submitted by the Maritime Transport Directorate of the European Commission, for the appointment of Mr. Thomas A. Kazakos, Director General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, as Member of the Board of Directors of EMSA, which is composed of Directors from the Maritime Administrations at Member States of the European Union.

The appointment of Mr. Kazakos on behalf of the European shipowners’ community, along with three other corresponding representatives from other European countries, on behalf of European Seafarers, European Ports and the European Academic Community, is of great significance and honour for Cyprus Shipping,

This is the first time that a Cypriot is appointed as a Professional Member at the Board of such an important EU Maritime organisation, representing European shipowners and thus, reflecting the international recognition that the Cyprus Shipping Industry has received through the 28 years of operation of Cyprus Shipping Chamber.