The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) recognising each others’ maritime training and certification of competency of seafarers.
The agreement, signed at the International Maritime Organization headquarters in London on Tuesday, eases the process for seafarers trained and certified in each country to be employed on ships flying the flag of the other.
According to the agreement, and in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), both countries will recognise education, training, and certificates of competency in the maritime sector, as well as medical fitness certificates for seafarers issued by maritime bodies and authorities in the other country.
Describing the agreement as “constructive maritime cooperation”, both countries said it was in line with their shared vision to ensure the highest standards of maritime safety.
Her Excellency Hessa Al Malek, advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), said the UAE was committed to providing quality maritime education and training.
“Certificates issued by competent bodies in the UAE are based on the highest international standards and accredited by top global organisations and bodies. The UAE has agreements with major countries in the maritime sector that have contributed to enhancing its global competitiveness.
“The MoU will support integration between the two countries and facilitate procedures that ensure the safety and security of the maritime sector, as well as strengthen bilateral relations in the maritime field,” Al Malek said.
Captain Abdulrahman Matooq Al-Thonayan, Saudi Arabia’s deputy for Maritime Transport, Transport General Authority, said: “At the Public Transport Authority, we work to develop the fleet of ships that carry the Saudi flag and enhance the capabilities of seafarers on board these ships in line with international safety, protection of the marine environment and maritime security standards issued by the IMO.”
“The MoU with MOEI will contribute to the progress of the maritime sector in both countries in line with our shared vision to ensure the proficiency of people working in the maritime sector to carry out their tasks according to the highest international standards,” Al-Thonayan added.
Regulation I/10 of the STCW convention places responsibility on a country that permits holders of certificates from other countries to be employed on ships flying its flag to have a process for confirming that the original certificate was issued in compliance with the convention, and for issuing an endorsement attesting to the recognition of the certificate issued by the other country.
