A memorandum of cooperation was signed on Thursday in Limassol between the cities of Limassol and Marseille, aiming to strengthen commercial and technical ties between their respective port authorities.

“Carrying centuries of maritime heritage and a future defined by smart, sustainable development, Limassol is more than a city of hospitality – it is the cornerstone of maritime progress,” Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis said during the signing, which took place at the international CobatyMed conference.

The agreement between the two port cities focuses on sustainable urban mobility and the exchange of expertise, particularly in areas such as transport planning and green infrastructure. Armeftis described the partnership as a natural evolution for Limassol, a city “shaped by centuries of maritime heritage” and now committed to sustainable growth.

“The relationship between the two ports – as well as between the peoples of Cyprus and France – dates back centuries, rooted in trade cooperation,” said Cyprus Ports Authority general manager Anthimos Christodoulides.

He called the memorandum an initiative that aims to explore new joint opportunities for the benefit of both economies and societies.

“Today, the port of Marseille is one of the largest commercial and passenger hubs in Europe. Strategically located in the Mediterranean, it is a valuable partner for Cypriot ports, which serve as the eastern gateway to Europe,” Christodoulides added.

The memorandum was signed by Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and Vincent Languille, Head of International Relations at the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolitan Authority, in the presence of French Ambassador to Cyprus Clélia Chevrier Kolačko.

The theme of this year’s CobatyMed, “Cities and Ports,” explores the historical and ongoing relationship between port infrastructure and urban development.