Saudi Arabia Concludes 10th ROPME Hydrographic Commission Meeting In Jeddah With Key Decisions

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA), recently concluded its hosting of the 10th Meeting of the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) Sea Area Hydrographic Commission. This event took place in Jeddah from November 26 to 28, bringing together regional and international stakeholders. Saudi Arabia's role in hosting this meeting highlights its leadership in hydrographic and marine surveying on both regional and global stages.

Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in providing marine geospatial data, creating and distributing nautical charts, and enhancing maritime safety to protect lives at sea. These efforts have positioned Saudi Arabia, represented by GEOSA, as the chair of the ROPME Hydrographic Commission under the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). The RSAHC comprises member states from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Iraq, Pakistan, and Iran, with affiliated members from the United States, United Kingdom, and France.

Eng. Saud Al-Ruwais, Chairman of the committee, highlighted the commission's dedication to coordinating activities among member states' hydrographic offices. Their main tasks include producing and updating digital and paper nautical charts, publishing navigational tools like tide tables, managing navigational warnings, and broadcasting maritime safety information. The commission also focuses on developing marine geospatial infrastructure and enhancing data management.

During the three-day meeting in Jeddah, several important decisions were made. The Islamic Republic of Iran was elected as Vice Chair of the commission. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia was appointed as the regional ambassador to oversee Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) initiatives in line with UN geospatial information goals. Additionally, Oman was chosen as coordinator for implementing the S-100 marine data model under universal hydrographic standards.

The event saw participation from Director Luigi Sinapi of the International Hydrographic Organization, representatives from international organizations, and leading global companies specializing in hydrographic surveying. This gathering underscored its significance in advancing global marine geospatial efforts. Such collaborations aim to strengthen national capabilities in hydrographic surveying while aligning with United Nations geospatial data objectives.

The commission prioritizes developing marine geospatial infrastructure to enhance data management capabilities. This aligns with United Nations goals for geospatial data management. By focusing on these areas, member states can improve their national capabilities in hydrographic surveying.

Saudi Arabia's leadership role within this commission reflects its commitment to promoting maritime safety and advancing marine geospatial efforts globally. Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in protecting lives at sea while contributing significantly to international hydrographic standards.

With inputs from SPA