Shipping Arabia’s Post

Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Global Maritime Leadership at IMO Council Meeting Shipping Arabia, November 23, 2024 — Saudi Arabia has reinforced its role as a pivotal player in global maritime affairs at the 133rd session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in London. The Kingdom's delegation, led by the Vice Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Acting President of the Transport General Authority (TGA), showcased Saudi Arabia's dedication to advancing maritime safety, environmental protection, and sustainable development. This active engagement in the IMO Council underlines Saudi Arabia's commitment to influencing global maritime policy and enhancing its standing within the international community. The Kingdom’s approach is firmly rooted in innovation and strategic international cooperation, aiming to address and navigate the complex challenges facing the maritime sector today. Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in aligning its maritime operations with international standards, investing in advanced infrastructure, and developing maritime competencies to build a skilled workforce adept at navigating the evolving demands of the industry. These efforts bolster the Kingdom's vision to emerge as a leading global logistics hub by 2030, positioning itself among the top ten countries in the Logistics Performance Index (LPI). The Kingdom's maritime fleet, the largest in the region, exemplifies its ambition to expand its capabilities and maintain a competitive edge in global trade. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is committed to environmental sustainability, actively participating in international efforts to mitigate the impact of maritime operations on the marine environment. This commitment is part of a broader national strategy focused on sustainability and responsible resource management. Saudi Arabia's continued participation in the IMO Council meetings is a testament to its proactive stance on global maritime governance. By prioritizing sustainable practices and fostering international partnerships, the Kingdom not only enhances its maritime sector but also contributes significantly to shaping the future of global maritime operations. Source: Transport General Authority #IMO #SaudiArabia #Maritime #Transportation #Leadership

Suez Canal Authority Addresses Regional Tensions with Strategic Expansion and Resilience Shipping Arabia, August 05, 2024 — Amidst heightened geopolitical tensions affecting global maritime routes, Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, shared detailed insights with Al-Ahram regarding the Canal's strategic responses and operational adjustments. Despite the disruptions posed by the Red Sea crises, Rabie emphasized the irreplaceable role of the Suez Canal in global trade, affirming its operational resilience and uninterrupted service. Rabie highlighted the challenges these regional tensions pose, from impacting stability to diverting global shipping routes, but stressed that the Suez Canal remains the most efficient path for maritime traffic, operating around the clock to assure the reliability and efficiency of its services. He discussed measures to minimize financial impacts and maintain commerce flow, including implementing new maritime services tailored to the immediate needs of transiting vessels, such as emergency repairs and pollution control. In response to revenue declines influenced by vessels opting for alternative routes, the Authority has initiated several strategic development projects. Notably, the expansion of the southern sector aims to increase both capacity and transit efficiency—a significant upgrade since 1990. Rabie also shed light on plans to enhance infrastructure and introduce innovative services that respond to the evolving needs of global shipping. Looking towards economic diversification, the Suez Canal Authority is actively pursuing opportunities beyond transit fees. This includes transforming the surrounding canal area into a dynamic economic zone featuring logistics hubs and supporting marine industries. Initiatives targeting the development of marine unit manufacturing and promoting yacht tourism are geared towards stimulating economic growth and enhancing private sector engagement. Reflecting on the historical significance of the Canal's nationalization, Rabie marked the decision as a pivotal moment in affirming Egypt's sovereignty and strategic autonomy over this vital maritime passage. He underscored the nationalization's role in fostering a robust administrative framework that has transformed the Canal into a globally recognized maritime and logistics hub. As the Suez Canal navigates through these challenging times, Rabie reaffirmed his dedication to sustaining its status as a cornerstone of global maritime trade, adapting strategically to regional and global economic shifts. With continuous developments and a focus on resilience, the Suez Canal Authority is poised to maintain its crucial role in the maritime industry, ensuring it remains a key player in international trade logistics. Source: Ahram Gate News #SuezCanal #Egypt #Maritime #Disruptions #RedSea

Saudi-Egyptian Technical Committee for Maritime Transport and Ports Concludes Eighth Session in Alexandria Shipping Arabia, May 15, 2024 - The eighth session of the Saudi-Egyptian Technical Committee for Maritime Transport and Ports concluded in Alexandria, Egypt, marking a pivotal advancement in bilateral maritime cooperation. Led by Essam Al-Amari of the Saudi Transport General Authority and Major General Reda Ismail, head of Egypt’s maritime transport sector, the session underscored the commitment of both nations to enhance their maritime relations. The presence of His Excellency Mazyad Al-Huwaishan, Consul General of Saudi Arabia in Alexandria, alongside key maritime partners, highlighted the session's significance. Key discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations within the maritime sector. Both countries emphasized the importance of promoting yacht tourism and facilitating passenger cruise operations. Strategies to boost mutual cooperation in maritime transport and port operations were a central theme of the meetings. Several critical initiatives were discussed, reflecting the proactive steps taken by both nations to deepen maritime cooperation. One major proposal was the development of a mechanism for the exchange of information and data concerning the inspection and control of passenger ships. This initiative aims to ensure smoother operations and enhanced regulatory compliance. Additionally, integrating approved digital platforms to streamline maritime operations and boost efficiency was a significant point of discussion. To ensure ongoing collaboration, it was agreed that specialists from both countries would hold periodic meetings to coordinate procedures between Saudi and Egyptian ports. This ongoing coordination aims to facilitate seamless maritime operations. Furthermore, the committee emphasized the need for full cooperation and coordination in regional and international maritime forums, reinforcing their commitment to global maritime standards and practices. The successful conclusion of this eighth session underscores the unwavering commitment of Saudi Arabia and Egypt to advance their maritime collaboration. This enhanced cooperation is expected to drive significant growth and innovation in maritime transport and port operations for both nations, paving the way for future advancements in the sector. Source: Saudi Transport General Authority #Egypt #SaudiArabia #Maritime #Transportation #Ports #Collaboration

Syrian Chamber of Shipping Initiates Action Plan for IMO Evaluation Shipping Arabia, August 16, 2024 — At the headquarters of the General Directorate of Ports in Latakia, a pivotal meeting convened by the newly formed committee under the Ministry of Transport’s decision No. 751 of 2024 took place, chaired by Deputy Minister of Transport for Land and Maritime Transport, Engineer Bushra Nasif. This initial session marked the beginning of a strategic endeavor to formulate a comprehensive action plan for managing the independent evaluation file with the International Maritime Organization. The complexity of the task requires a collaborative approach among all stakeholders to fulfill the evaluation requirements effectively, aiming to bolster the quality and international standing of Syrian ports and maritime certificates. Mohammad Jamal Othman, Chairman of the Syrian Chamber of Shipping, emphasized the critical nature of this evaluation, highlighting its potential to significantly advance the maritime transport sector within the Syrian Arab Republic. This initiative is set to lay the groundwork for a robust operational system, promising lasting benefits for future generations. Vice Chairman of the Chamber, Mr. Wafi Al-Sayed, discussed the enhancement of electronic connectivity between relevant sectors and the necessity for flexible port operations. He also advocated for ongoing modernization of mechanisms and equipment to support the development of port facilities. The meeting also served as an occasion for expressing gratitude towards the Minister of Transport for his dedicated oversight of this crucial initiative, Deputy Minister Nasif for her effective leadership, and the Director-General of the General Directorate of Ports for exemplary hospitality and transparency in tackling central issues pivotal to the directorate’s mission. With these concerted efforts, the Syrian Chamber of Shipping is committed to mobilizing all resources to successfully meet the International Maritime Organization’s standards, thus reinforcing Syria’s maritime capabilities on a global scale. Source: Syrian Chamber of Shipping #Syria #Maritime #IMO #Shipping #Ports

The decision by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to establish its seventh Regional Presence Office (RPO) in Suva, Fiji, marks a significant milestone in enhancing the organization's reach and impact in the region. This strategic move follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, and Fiji's Minister for Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau on March 18. The establishment of the new Regional Presence Office in Suva underscores the IMO's commitment to bolstering its operations and collaboration with stakeholders in the Pacific region. By setting up a dedicated office in Suva, the IMO aims to strengthen its presence on the ground, allowing for closer engagement with local authorities, industry players, and other key partners. This initiative will facilitate more effective coordination of maritime activities, capacity-building efforts, and the implementation of international maritime regulations in the region. Furthermore, the establishment of the RPO in Suva will serve as a hub for knowledge-sharing, technical assistance, and resource mobilization to support sustainable maritime development in the Pacific. With the new Regional Presence Office in Suva, the IMO will be better positioned to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing the maritime sector in the region. This initiative aligns with the organization's broader mission to promote safe, secure, and environmentally sustainable shipping globally. By expanding its network of RPOs, the IMO can enhance its operational efficiency and responsiveness to emerging maritime issues in different parts of the world. In conclusion, the establishment of the seventh Regional Presence Office in Suva, Fiji, reflects the IMO's proactive approach to strengthening its engagement with the Pacific region. This development signifies a deepening of cooperation between the IMO and Fiji, demonstrating a shared commitment to advancing maritime governance and fostering sustainable development in the region. The new RPO in Suva is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the IMO's objectives and promoting a vibrant and resilient maritime industry in the Pacific.

Suez Canal Authority and INTERCARGO Discuss Strategic Collaboration Amid Regional Tensions Shipping Arabia, July 04, 2024 — In a strategic move to bolster maritime collaboration, Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, held a video conference with Mr. Kostas Gkonis, Secretary General of INTERCARGO, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners. The discussion centered on enhancing cooperative efforts and addressing the ongoing challenges in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb region. The meeting included senior officials such as Mr. Dimitris Moniours, Vice Chairman of the Technical Committee at INTERCARGO, and Mr. Xian Yong, Director of Operations at INTERCARGO. Representing the Suez Canal Authority were Dr. Fathy Abdel Bari, Director of Planning, Research, and Studies, and Engineer Nashat Nasr El-Din, Director of Movements Department. Together, they explored ways to refine navigation policies and develop joint operational mechanisms that could lessen the regional crises’ impact on global trade flows. Admiral Rabie emphasized the Suez Canal Authority's proactive approach in maintaining open lines of communication with maritime stakeholders and coordinating with international maritime organizations. He detailed the adverse effects of the current regional tensions on global trade, including escalating shipping and fuel costs and significant delays in the delivery of goods. In response, the Authority has taken comprehensive measures, including the enhancement of maritime rescue operations, ship maintenance, and marine ambulance services, alongside ongoing development projects for the canal’s infrastructure and fleet. Mr. Kostas Gkonis affirmed INTERCARGO’s commitment to maritime safety, stressing the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of marine crews, ships, and cargoes. He voiced his anticipation for continued collaboration with the Suez Canal Authority to keep the association’s members, encompassing over 3,000 ships, well-informed of the latest developments in the region and to provide necessary support to navigate the prevailing security challenges. Mr. Xian Yong praised the Suez Canal Authority’s efforts to mitigate the crisis’s impact, highlighting the importance of collective action to develop effective strategies during these turbulent times. Additionally, Mr. Dimitris Moniours noted INTERCARGO’s vigilant monitoring of the situation and its implications for international maritime navigation. INTERCARGO, which represents 157 members from 30 countries, works closely with international regulatory bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop and influence global maritime legislation, ensuring that the interests of the maritime community are well-represented and advanced at the international level. Source: Suez Canal Authority #SuezCanal #Maritime #IMO #INTERCARGO #Shipping

Iraq Ports Host National Workshop to Boost Compliance with IMO Audit Standards Shipping Arabia, May 28, 2024 — Under the sponsorship of the Minister of Transport, Mr. Razzaq Mohibis Al-Saadawi, and guided by the Director General of Iraq Ports, Dr. Engineer Farhan Al-Fartousi, a significant workshop was held today at the Millennium Al-Saif Hotel in Basra. Organized in cooperation with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), this event focused on the implementation of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme, which is crucial for enhancing maritime administration compliance and performance. Initiated by Iraq’s Permanent Mission to the IMO, represented by Ambassador Mohammad Jaafar Al-Sadr, the workshop features expert facilitators Captain Aateed Abdul Razzaq from Morocco and Chief Marine Engineer Moeen Al-Zoubi from Jordan. The sessions, running from May 26 to May 30, are supervised by Captain Adel Ali Dasher, Assistant Director General for Technical Affairs at Iraq Ports. Dr. Al-Fartousi emphasized that the workshop is a preparatory step for the mandatory inspections by the IMO scheduled for mid-2025. The outcomes of these inspections are pivotal, aiming to reinstate Iraq on the IMO white list, which will enhance the credibility of Iraqi maritime operations globally. Achieving this status would facilitate the re-raising of the Iraqi flag on national vessels, ease the entry of Iraqi sailors into international ports, and enhance the operational capabilities of Iraqi ports to handle international ship traffic. The workshop also focuses on critical areas such as marine environmental preservation, maritime safety, and security for all vessels docking at Iraqi ports. Attendees include representatives from various Iraqi maritime institutions such as the Arab Gulf Academy, Maritime Transport Company, Oil Tanker Company, High Maritime Authority, and other departments within the Ports Company. Feedback from participants highlights the thorough organization by the General Company of Iraq Ports and the active engagement and commitment from all attendees, reflecting Iraq Ports' dedication to meeting IMO standards and enhancing Iraq's maritime industry standards. This event is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Transport to align Iraq's maritime operations with international best practices and regulations, thereby supporting the national goal of becoming a significant player in the global maritime sector. Source: Iraq Ports Media #IMO #Iraq #Maritime #Shipping #Transportation

🚨 New European rules on national subsidies for inland vessels! A business opportunity for European shipyards? ⚓️ 💡 Today, the European Commission has launched a public consultation on draft rules for State Aid concerning land and multimodal transport, with a specific focus on inland waterways. 🚢 Inland waterways currently transport approximately 150 billion tonne-kilometres of cargo annually, facilitated by 15,000 cargo vessels, alongside 3,000 day-trip passenger vessels and 430 cruise vessels. 📈 Despite its significant potential for growth, the sector faces challenges such as an aging fleet and struggles to increase its market share compared to other transport modes. 🔍 To address these issues, the European Commission proposes criteria to govern the compatibility of national public aid "for the acquisition of inland waterways vessels to facilitate access to finance to invest in the fleet". 📢 Will this aid effectively support European shipyards and contribute to SEA Europe's ambition to "build in Europe 10,000 sustainable and digitalised vessels by 2035"? More here 👇 https://lnkd.in/ezdsFEAs

EMSA welcomed EU – MS transport attachés Last Friday (12.04.2024), European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), Executive Director Maja Markovčić Kostelac and her management team welcomed EU – MS transport attachés who follow the Council’s Working Party on Shipping, to EMSA headquarters in Lisbon. During our visit, we learned more about EMSA’s work and mission, and visited EMSA’s Maritime Support Services Centre and the Training Centre. It was a visit postponed since the Croatian Presidency, hoping that it will be a tradition based on good cooperation and continued good work. The year 2024 is certainly a key year in many different aspects, as we are moving to the implementing era of the Fit For 55 Package, and the Council and European Parliament’s negotiators reached provisional agreements on four pieces of legislation of the ‘maritime safety’ legislative package (namely those amending directives on compliance with flag state requirements and on port state control, maritime accident investigation and the ship source pollution).   #GreeceinBrussels #Greece #EMSA #EU #shipping #maritime #FitFor55 #EUTransport MINISTRY OF MARITIME AFFAIRS & INSULAR POLICY

The most important statements of Mr. Guy Platten, Secretary-General International Chamber of Shipping ICS We look forward to continuing cooperation with the Suez Canal Authority and presenting visions and consultations on mechanisms for confronting current challenges in the Red Sea region The return of major shipping lines to the port via the Suez Canal is inevitable once stability returns to the region. We hope that the beginning of next year will witness a great relief at all levels and stability in the security and political situation in the region. We commend the efforts made by the Suez Canal Authority to ensure the regularity of navigation in the canal in the current circumstances. The future holds more promising opportunities to increase the movement of trade crossing the Suez Canal during the coming year once the situation in the region stabilizes in light of what the canal achieves in terms of reducing the level of harmful carbon emissions and saving fuel consumption in line with the future trends of the maritime transport industry and the initiatives of the International Maritime Organization IMO" to reduce the level of harmful emissions and increase reliance on green fuel.