President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, mentioned the inauguration of the new passenger terminal of DP World Limassol, by saying that a new era begins for Limassol’s Port, the tourism and shipping industry. Noting that a new page in the history of the Cypriot economy was created in April 2016, with the signing of the Limassol Ports Agreement, President Anastasiades expressed his joy at the fact that experienced international and local partners will secure their future prospects.
This project, one of the largest in Cyprus, is a model for the ongoing efforts of the Republic of Cyprus to become a modern center for investment, trade and service provision. The new terminal of DP World Limassol, which has been funded by the Port Authority, "will provide a stable, efficient and modern environment for cruises, commerce and other port operations" said Anastasiades. For his part, DP World’s President and Managing Director, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, referred to the result of a collective effort and cooperation to create a new gateway for tourists visiting Cyprus.
"We are proud to be part of this strategic partnership with the Government and the local community, capitalizing on this valuable national asset that will contribute to the further development of the tourism industry," he said. DP World's goal is to make Port of Limassol a port of choice in the Eastern Mediterranean region, creating infrastructure that will enhance the sustainable development of both the local economy and Cyprus in general.
Factor of economic growth
“The Limassol Cruise Terminal is an magnificent building for Limassol and Cyprus designed to accommodate the largest operating cruise vessels”, says the General Manager of DP World Limassol, Charles Meaby, mentioning that it can be an important factor of economic growth, opening up new opportunities for Cyprus. DP World Limassol places high priority on the cruise industry and with the opening of the new passenger terminal aspires to transform Limassol port into a home port destination of choice for cruise lines.
“The terminal represents a huge improvement in services and facilities, enhancing the experience of both cruise lines and passengers while it will significantly contribute to strengthening the sustainable development of tourism”, says Meaby, adding that a thriving cruise market can be a catalyst for positive change, with far reaching benefits for the economy, such as the creation of new jobs and the provision of upgraded services for the local and the wider business community since the Terminal is also available for hiring.
“We work in partnership with the Government and other industry stakeholders in order to realise the opportunities arising from this pivotal moment and develop the growing tourism sector still further”, he adds. As part of its customer-centric philosophy, DP World Limassol is committed to continue to invest to serve more cruise ships and meet the needs of the larger ships.