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AKEL Leader's Letter to President Regarding Larnaca Port

Published February 19, 2026, 12:13
AKEL Leader's Letter to President Regarding Larnaca Port

The General Secretary of AKEL, Stefanos Stefanou, sent a letter to the President of the Republic expressing his concern about the situation at the Port of Larnaca. The letter emphasizes that the continued uncertainty and lack of strategic planning for the port are hindering its development. AKEL believes that the privatization of the Port of Larnaca, as well as the previous experience with the Port of Limassol, would be detrimental to the interests of the state, the economy, and society, due to increased charges and non-implementation of investments. Mr. Stefanou states that maintaining critical infrastructure under public control is essential for the sovereignty and security of Cyprus. He points out that the management of the Port of Larnaca by the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) generated significant revenue, demonstrating the viability of public management. AKEL also expresses its concern about pressures being exerted to assign the management of the port to private companies, especially Kition Ocean Holdings, whose contract was terminated due to non-fulfillment of its obligations. The letter outlines specific proposals by AKEL for the future of the port, emphasizing the need for a clear policy decision and a strategic plan that will ensure the development and prosperity of Larnaca and Cyprus. The letter concludes by expressing the belief that keeping the port under public control is the best solution for its utilization. Stefanou's letter represents a clear position of AKEL on the issue of the Larnaca port, warning of the negative consequences of potential privatization and proposing an alternative solution based on public management and strategic planning.