ATHENS, GREECE, May 9, 2006 – Diana Shipping Inc. (NYSE: DSX), a global shipping transportation company specializing in dry bulk cargoes, today announced that its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2006, are scheduled to be released after the close of the U.S. financial markets on Thursday, May 11, 2006.

The declaration of the Company’s cash dividend for the quarter ended March 31, 2006 also will be announced at that time.

The Company’s management will conduct a conference call and simultaneous Internet webcast to review these results at 10:00 A.M. (Eastern Time) on Friday, May 12, 2006.

Investors may access the webcast by visiting the Company’s website at www.dianashippinginc.com, and clicking on the webcast link.  The webcast also is accessible at www.viavid.net, by clicking on the Diana Shipping link under “Events”.  The conference call also may be accessed by telephone by dialing 1-877-692-2086 (for U.S.-based callers) or 1-973-935-8599 (for international callers).

A replay of the webcast will be available soon after the completion of the call and will be accessible on both www.dianashippinginc.com and www.viavid.net.  A telephone replay will be available by dialing 1-877-519-4471 (for U.S.-based callers) or 1-973-341-3080 (for international callers); callers must use the PIN number 7358810.

About the Company
Diana Shipping Inc. (NYSE: DSX) is a global provider of shipping transportation services.  The Company specializes in transporting dry bulk cargoes, including such commodities as iron ore, coal, grain and other materials along worldwide shipping routes.