21/05/2001 (Agence Europe) - The Cypriot Government intends notably improving the safety standards of its merchant fleet, through harmonization programmes and increased inspection of ships, said the Cypriot minister of Communications, Averof Ncophytou, at a conference on "The Cypriot Fleet and Prospects for EU Membership".. "By 2003, Cyprus will be in a position to respond to the highest EU expectations, while maintaining aid to the shipping industry, thereby enabling the EU to have the...