Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Fiji, represented by the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, focusing on the mutual recognition of maritime certificates of competency. The agreement aligns with Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU was signed by Eng. Mohammed Al Mansoori, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for the UAE, and Naisa Tuinaceva, Assistant Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services of Fiji. The memorandum is designed to enhance bilateral cooperation in maritime education and training, as well as the recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by both nations. This initiative is expected to boost the efficiency of maritime professionals on vessels from both countries, enhance maritime safety, protect the marine environment, and ease the mobility of skilled professionals in the maritime sector.
Al Mansoori highlighted that the signing of the memorandum signifies a pivotal move reflecting the UAE's dedication to fortifying its maritime transport framework in compliance with international standards and supporting the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates of competency. This commitment ensures workforce competence and reinforces maritime safety and security. He further stated that the agreement underscores the UAE's focus on broadening international partnerships in the maritime sector, facilitating the mobility of maritime professionals, and enhancing the credibility of national certificates. This aligns with the strategic vision to position the UAE as a leading global hub for maritime transport and services.
Tuinaceva commended the efforts involved, noting the MoU's importance in bolstering bilateral cooperation between Fiji and the UAE in the maritime sector. He added that the agreement fosters international mobility for qualified seafarers, enhances regulatory cooperation, and reaffirms both countries' commitment to international standards for maritime safety, competence, and workforce development.
The memorandum commits both parties to implementing international convention requirements, verifying that their training, assessment, and certification systems meet approved standards, and facilitating technical exchange visits to review procedures for certificate approval, registration, and renewal. Additionally, the agreement ensures that certificate holders comply with medical fitness standards.
