Israel welcomes Cyprus’ efforts for the reopening of the Cyprus-Greece Maritime Passenger Connection and the possibility of its expansion into Israel.

“In a recent online meeting, the Minister of Transport and Road Safety of the State of Israel, Mrs. Merav Michaeli and the Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Vassilios Demetriades confirmed the excellent relations between Israel and Cyprus in the field of maritime transport and stressed that they will be further strengthened for the mutual benefit of both countries.

The discussion focused on the efforts made by the Shipping Deputy Ministry of the Republic of Cyprus to establish a Maritime Connection between Cyprus and Greece through an open tender. Ms. Michaeli and Mr. Demetriades shared the view that the possibility of expanding the Cyprus-Greece sea connection with Israel will facilitate the free movement of persons and will enrich the available means of transport between the three countries as the only available mode of passenger transport is currently by air.

It was recognised that the sea connection will also serve the needs of special categories of citizens who are unable to travel by air either for medical reasons, due to age or due to aerophobia.

In addition, Ms. Michaeli and Mr. Demetriades acknowledged that a possible expansion of the Cyprus-Greece sea connection with Israel will create a new market segment for travelers exploring different cultures and tourism to / from Cyprus, Greece, Israel and Europe.

“The Israeli Minister of Transport and the Cypriot Shipping Deputy Minister also stressed the fact that the creation of an alternative means of transporting passengers by sea is a more environmentally friendly option in relation to air transport.”