On Friday, June 21, 2024, H.E. Ms. Maria Michail presented her credentials to the Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), H.E. Mr. Michael W. Lodge, as the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Cyprus to ISA.

Ambassador Michail has had a distinguished career in the Diplomatic Service of Cyprus, which she joined in 1997. Her extensive experience includes roles such as Deputy High Commissioner in London, Deputy Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the United Nations in Geneva, and High Commissioner of Cyprus to India. Most recently, she served as Ambassador of Cyprus to Austria with parallel accreditation to Slovenia and Permanent Representative to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and other international organizations in Vienna.

Ambassador Michail holds a Master’s degree in European studies from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor’s degree in politics from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom. She is fluent in Greek and English.

During the credential presentation ceremony, Ambassador Michail emphasized Cyprus’s dedication to the mandate and work of ISA. “The Republic of Cyprus attaches great importance to the crucial role of ISA as set out in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). My government reaffirms its support for the mission of ISA to organize and control all activities in the Area while ensuring the effective protection of the marine environment and human life,” she said.

“Cyprus underscores the strategic importance of UNCLOS in maintaining global and regional peace and stability, promoting cooperation and sustainable development, and supporting the peaceful settlement of disputes,” Ambassador Michail added.

ISA Secretary-General Lodge highlighted the importance of Cyprus’ significant contributions to the effective implementation of UNCLOS and the importance it attaches to ISA’s mission. “It is a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Michail as the new Permanent Representative to ISA. I look forward to working closely with her and the Government of Cyprus, particularly in the field of ocean governance, deep-sea literacy, and capacity development,” he added.