UAE, Saudi to enhance maritime ties

In line with their shared vision to ensure the highest standards of maritime safety, and within the outcomes of the Saudi-Emirati Coordination Council, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) and the Transport General Authority (TGA) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for mutual recognition of maritime certificates issued in both countries.

This is in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978, and its amendments.

In the presence of Suhail Bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and officials and maritime strategic partners from both sides, the MoU was signed by Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and Capt. Abdulrahman Matooq Al-Thonayan, Deputy for Maritime Transport, Transport General Authority in Saudi Arabia. The MoU was signed at the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) headquarters in London.

According to the MoU, both sides 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, as well as seafarers on board ships flying the flag of the other party, in line with the international regulations and agreements.

Suhail Al Mazrouei said, “The wise leadership in both the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are keen to enhance strategic cooperation and economic, trade and development integration between the two countries. The Saudi-Emirati Coordination Council is an exceptional model in the region where strategic visions and national interests are integrated to serve the people of both countries. It reflects the strong relationship that stems from the keenness to implement the shared vision of the two countries.”