Welcome speech (tbc) on behalf of Chief Scientist for Research & Innovation of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Demetris Skourides

Tech Talk of the EU-funded Horizon Europe Twinning project  

coordinated by the Centre of Excellence CMMI 

26 November 2024

Dear Commander (N) Andreas Charalambides,
Dear Dr Kyriakides, Research Director of the Marine Technology Division of the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Allow me, before I begin my speech, to extend the warm greetings of the Chief Scientist, Mr. Demetris Skourides, who is currently on a very important trip to Singapore on behalf of our country.

I am honored to address you today at the Tech Talk event for the EU-funded LORELEI-X project. This initiative exemplifies the kind of innovation that lies at the core of our national and European priorities, addressing critical challenges in maritime safety and security while advancing technological excellence.

The development of advanced autonomous systems within LORELEI-X marks a significant advancement in research and innovation. These systems, designed to enhance search and rescue operations, align seamlessly with the European Union’s Blue Growth and BlueMed strategies, which emphasize sustainable innovation at sea. Additionally, the project directly supports Cyprus’s Smart Specialization Strategy, where robotics, unmanned systems, and digitalization are identified as key drivers of progress.

From Chief Scientist perspective, we are especially proud that one of our Cypriot Centres of Excellence—the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI)—is leading this transformative effort. Collaborating with world-class institutions such as the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), this partnership represents a shining example of how international collaboration can elevate Cyprus’s research ecosystem and position our country as a hub for advanced marine robotics.

Beyond its scientific and technical significance, LORELEI-X has the potential to deliver tangible societal and economic benefits. Its focus on autonomous maritime systems, such as micro-underwater vehicles and robotic surveillance platforms, represents a leap forward in the speed, efficiency, and safety of search and rescue missions.

Chief Scientist, role is to foster an ecosystem where projects like LORELEI-X can thrive. Cyprus has achieved impressive strides in research and innovation, consistently ranking as a Strong Innovator in Europe and climbing global indices. Yet, we cannot afford to rest on these achievements. The maritime sector, in particular, is undergoing rapid transformation due to global trends in digitalization, decarbonization, and cybersecurity. It is through initiatives like LORELEI-X that Cyprus can remain at the forefront of these changes, demonstrating leadership in marine technology and innovation.

Chief Scientist is looking forward to seeing how the outcomes of this project will shape the future of maritime safety and innovation, not only in Cyprus but across the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond. The Chief Scientist expresses his congratulations to the CMMI team and their European partners for their vision and commitment to this groundbreaking endeavor.

Thank you.