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Limassol, Cyprus - On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Limassol, convened its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Alasia Hotel in Limassol. The event brought together esteemed Members and prominent figures from Cyprus’ maritime industry, reinforcing the Club’s ongoing commitment to fostering industry cooperation and sector development.

The event was honored by the presence of Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, and Dr. Daniel Mangis, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, who delivered the official welcome address.

The meeting commenced with welcoming remarks from the Club’s President, Mr. Polys V. Hajioannou, who underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral ties and maritime relations between Cyprus and the United States. He highlighted the notable success of the Capital Link Cyprus Business Forum in New York and referenced the recent engagements by Cyprus President, Mr. Christodoulides, in the U.S., which focused on attracting high-value investments from global markets.

Following his address, the Club’s Secretary General, Dr. Loukas N. Barmparis initiated the official AGM proceedings. He reflected on the Club’s key milestones since its establishment and highlighted the successful collaborations that have shaped its progress. He then proceeded with the AGM agenda, which included, among other matters, the approval of the financial statements and auditors’ report for the year ending December 31, 2024, the re-appointment of auditors for 2025, and the election of board members for the next two-year term. Demonstrating continuity and confidence in leadership, all nine incumbent board members were re-elected, reaffirming their commitment to the Club’s mission and future initiatives. 

Subsequently, on April 30th, the formal constitution of the newly elected board took place, officially establishing its structure. 

The evening’s highlight was the keynote speech delivered by Professor Emeritus of Geography and Geopolitics, Mr. George Prevelakis. His invitation was orchestrated by his longtime friend, schoolmate, and Club’s Vice President A’, Mr. George A. Tavliris, who provided a warm introduction. Mr. Prevelakis shared insightful perspectives on the evolving global geopolitical landscape, addressing shifting power dynamics and key geoeconomic developments. His speech captivated attendees, followed by an engaging Q&A session.

Concluding the formal proceedings, guests enjoyed a cocktail buffet reception in the gardens of the Alasia Hotel, providing an opportunity for further discussion and networking.

The Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Limassol, continues to serve as a driving force in advancing the Cyprus maritime community, with the commitment of the board to impactful initiatives and sector-wide collaboration.

The International Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Limassol, in cooperation with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and the Cyprus Union of Shipowners (CUS), and under the auspices of the Shipping Deputy Ministry and the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, organized a ceremony in Limassol on November 7 to recognize Cyprus-based shipping companies participating in the United States Coast Guard's Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) program. The AMVER program helps guide merchant shipping vessels to assist other vessels in distress on the high seas.

AMVER is open to vessels of all flags and nations. Companies participating in this program voluntarily make their ships available as rescue assets in the event of an emergency. Prior to sailing, participating ships send a sail plan, indicating their port of departure, port of destination, course, and speed to the AMVER computer center. In an emergency, AMVER receives notification of a vessel, mariner, or aircraft in distress, and locates and informs the nearest participating vessel of the need for immediate assistance, at no cost.

Since its inception in 1958, AMVER has provided 66 years of search and rescue services around the world. In 2023, the U.S. Coast Guard activated the AMVER system for 170 cases, saving 771 lives and assisting another 240 people at sea. The AMVER system had more than 6,345 ships available for search and rescue around the world each day. International cooperation between ships, companies, communication service providers, governments, and search-and-rescue authorities contribute to AMVER’s success in protecting lives at sea.

U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Julie Davis Fisher presented the awards on behalf of the U.S. Coast Guard, recognizing participating mariners and their companies. Ambassador Davis Fisher hailed AMVER as an excellent example of mutual assistance and partnership.

“Cyprus continues to make vital contributions to the AMVER program, and that growing support deserves special recognition,” said Ambassador Davis Fisher. “We know that the vibrant Cypriot shipping sector makes a difference in supporting this life-saving program and delivers valuable contributions to the Cypriot economy. Tonight, we celebrate these collaborative efforts for safety and stability, and for providing urgent assistance to vessels in distress at sea.”

For more information on the U.S. Coast Guard’s unique worldwide search and rescue system, please visit www.AMVER.com