10-09-2025
S. Paliou re-elected to the Presidency of INTERMEPA and the the President of CYMEPA G. Tsavliris is assigned the duties of Former President
New leadership in the International Marine Environment Protection Association with a strong Cypriot presence
In a significant development for Cypriot shipping and the protection of the marine environment, the President of the Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), George Tsavliris, assumes the duties of Past President of the Executive Committee of the International Marine Environment Protection Association (INTERMEPA).
This decision comes after the elections held on 29 July 2025, where Semiramis Paliou, President of the Hellenic MEPA (HELMEPA), was unanimously re-elected to the position of President for a second two-year term. Sadan Kaptanoglu, President of the Turkish MEPA (TURMEPA), will assume the position of Vice President. Mr. Tsavliris' participation in the new team ensures continuity and the transfer of valuable experience to the new administration.
INTERMEPA, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in June 2026, is a global alliance for the protection of the seas. It coordinates the action of national associations from eight countries – Cyprus, Greece, North America, Nigeria, Ukraine, Uruguay, Turkey and the Philippines. Through joint initiatives, training programs and the exchange of know-how, the organization aims to address the environmental challenges posed by shipping.
In her statement, the re-elected President, Ms. Paliou, emphasized the collective strength of the network: “Our strength lies in our unity. Each national MEPA contributes with its own initiatives and volunteers, and together we have created a global force for the protection of the seas. We represent over a million volunteers worldwide, with hundreds of actions, training programs and awareness-raising initiatives that have a measurable and meaningful impact. We continue this work together, stronger than ever.”
With its 20th anniversary approaching, the new leadership of INTERMEPA is called upon to further strengthen the coordination and influence of the organization, with the active participation of Cyprus, at a time when challenges to the marine environment require international and collective solutions.
