It gives me great pleasure to address the “Digital Ship 2011 Conference”, which is organised for the eighth time in Cyprus, following the successful deliberations of the previous conferences, as a result of the commendable initiatives of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber.

I would like to welcome you all, especially those who came to our island from abroad, to this important conference to discuss information, communications and technology issues.

Our working and living conditions have become much easier today due to the advanced level of information and communication technology. Fast and safe communications also form an essential ingredient for any international business centre to be successful, and Cyprus has recognised this a long time ago. They are however especially important for the shipping industry, which depends heavily on reliable, safe and fast communications between the ships travelling around the world and their shore - based offices for the safe and secure operation of the ships.

The operation of advanced information technology and communication systems has a direct effect on every aspect of shipping. It enables prompt, precise and effective decision making both onboard and ashore. It is essential for the safe and secure operation of the ships, as well as for the protection of the environment and life at sea. It is also an indispensable tool for sound financial management which is of vital importance especially during periods of economic crisis such as the one we are going through now.

Furthermore, we all recognise the vital role of the seafarers and we also recognise how demanding their job is. The advanced and user friendly communication systems, which are available onboard today, contribute to the seafarers’ welfare by enabling them to have access to information of their interest but more importantly to be in close contact with their loved ones back home.

My Ministry and the Department of Merchant Shipping attach particular attention to maritime safety, security and pollution prevention. In this respect, I should mention that the already in operation Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System in Cyprus provides valuable information about maritime traffic in the eastern Mediterranean, leading to the prevention of marine casualties, improved protection of the marine environment and prevention of trafficking of illegal immigrants.

I cannot, however, close my speech without making reference to an issue which is becoming an increasing problem to the safe passage of your ships and affects the safety of the crew onboard. I refer to piracy and the heightened pirate activity observed over the last couple of years initially in the Gulf of Aden and more recently in the wider Indian Ocean. My Ministry has acknowledged your concerns and is taking initiatives to face the above problem. We believe that we must afford all those tools that are necessary to the ship operators to protect their ships sailing in the pirate infected areas. As a leading flag we will also take an active role in urging the European Union and the IMO to take all those legal and practical measures that will result in making the world’s sea lanes and corridors safe for international shipping.

Closing, I would like to wish you all a very productive conference and for those who came from abroad a pleasant stay in Cyprus. I am confident that the distinguished speakers of the conference with the participation of the audience and the wealth of expertise that shipping companies in Cyprus possess, will make this year’s conference another great success.