UAE And Jordan Sign Pact To Recognize Seafarers’ Certificates More Broadly

In a significant move to bolster maritime cooperation, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) of the United Arab Emirates and Jordan's Ministry of Transport have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic agreement aims to enhance collaboration, capacity building, and the exchange of knowledge, particularly focusing on the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates of competence. The MoU was formalised by Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at MoEI, and Omar Al-Dabbas, Director-General of the Jordanian Maritime Authority.

This partnership underscores both nations' commitment to exploring new opportunities within the maritime sector. It also aims to promote maritime education and training, thereby advancing socioeconomic and cultural development. Al Malek highlighted the importance of this MoU in supporting mutual interests such as advancing maritime scientific and technological knowledge and sharing technologies, experiences, and information. She emphasized that the UAE and Jordan share longstanding relations, which are pivotal in driving progress across various sectors, especially in maritime, a crucial pillar of national economies.

Al Malek further noted that partnerships are a powerful tool for achieving goals, expressing enthusiasm for joining forces with Jordan's Ministry of Transport. This collaboration is expected to unlock new areas for cooperation that will have a positive impact on both nations. She stressed the maritime sector's need for effective partnerships to transfer technological developments and align with future visions for sustainable development.

The Director-General of the Jordanian Maritime Authority echoed these sentiments, highlighting the deep bilateral relations nurtured under the wise leaderships of both countries. She expressed pride in the advanced state of relations in all aspects and a desire to further strengthen these ties in the maritime sector. The high degree of collaboration between the two sides aims to promote mutual goals towards sustainable development, optimise human potential, and protect the marine environment.

Al-Dabbas also pointed out the eagerness of both parties to progress maritime education and training to keep pace with changing industry trends. This includes promoting cooperation between maritime education and training institutions in both countries to ensure exceptional outcomes.

The MoU reflects a commitment by the UAE and Jordan to implement the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and its amendments. This ensures the competency and eligibility of seafarers from both sides to achieve the highest standards for marine safety, property protection, and maritime environmental preservation.

With inputs from WAM