Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, on Thursday signed an initial cooperation agreement in the field of maritime transport with the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
The agreement aims at exchanging consultations, information and sharing experiences in the field of maritime transport, cooperation between maritime transport companies and exploring economic investment initiatives in the field of maritime transport.
The agreement also focuses on exchanging technical assistance necessary for developing maritime transport and facilitating technology transfer that contributes to developing the sector in both countries, as well as encouraging studies and training.
The agreement also aims to augment the level of maritime services provided to vessels of both countries.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was also signed between the two ministries on the mutual recognition of certificates of competency and proficiency for seafarers.
The MoU targets enhancing cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW78) in its amended format. Oman joined the convention in 1990 promulgated by Royal decree No 65/90.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) will contribute to the mutual recognition of the maritime education and training system between the two countries, as well as the mutual recognition of competency certificates issued to captains, officers and operators of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and proficiency certificates holders.
The memorandum will allow seafarers holding the Omani certificate of competency to work on board ships flying the Saudi flag. It will also allow seafarers who have a Saudi competency certificate to work on board ships flying the Omani flag.
The memorandum includes various articles, namely on the requirements necessary for issuing certificates of competency and proficiency.
The MoU was signed by Eng Said Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Eng Saleh al Jasser, KSA Minister of Transport and Logistic Services.
