The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Keve) on Thursday released a statement congratulating Thomas Kazakos, the director general of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), on his appointment as secretary-general of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
The appointment was originally announced on December 18, 2024, with Kazakos’ term coming into effect on April 1, 2025.
“Kazakos’ appointment to this prestigious position is a distinguished achievement for both him personally and for the entire Cypriot shipping community,” said the chamber in its announcement.
“The appointment of one of our own to this role, succeeding the outgoing secretary-general Guy Platten, recognises his significant work and long-standing contribution to international shipping,” it added.
What is more, Keve said that “Kazakos’ success reflects the high standards of Cyprus’ shipping sector and the country’s role as a leader in the international maritime scene, as well as his own high-quality characteristics”.
“Keve expresses its full support for Kazakos and wishes him every success in his new, demanding role,” the announcement added.
The chamber also stated that “with this appointment, Cyprus further strengthens its reputation as a strong global maritime centre”.
It continued by saying that it “remains dedicated to continuing its support for shipping and entrepreneurship in our country”.
It should be noted that Kazakos was selected unanimously by the ICS board from a field of internationally recognised candidates.
The ICS, based in London, represents shipowners’ associations managing over 80 per cent of the world’s merchant fleet and plays a crucial role in advocating for the shipping industry.
The CSC hailed Kazakos’ appointment as a “major milestone for Cypriot shipping” and a “special honour” for both Cypriot shipping and Cyprus.
They also expressed full support and wished him success in this critical period for international shipping, emphasising their intent to work closely with him.
Commenting on the appointment, Kazakos himself said that he is “very proud to have been selected to become the next secretary general of the ICS”.
“In my role with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, I have seen first-hand and have contributed to the vital work that ICS undertakes,” he added at the time.
Kazakos also said that “it is vital that we have a strong and resilient organisation to ably represent their views.”
Meanwhile, ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi praised Kazakos for his experience within ICS and the shipping industry, calling him “the ideal candidate” to build on the work of the outgoing Platten.
