The United Arab Emirates, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fiji, represented by the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, regarding the mutual recognition of maritime competency certificates. This agreement aligns with the “I/10” provisions of the 1978 Maritime Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping Convention and its amendments.
The memorandum was signed at the ministry headquarters in Dubai by Mohammed Al Mansoori, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Infrastructure and Transport on behalf of the UAE, and by the Honorable Naisau Twenavesi, Assistant Minister of Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services for Fiji.
Mohammed Al Mansoori emphasized that this agreement marks a significant step reflecting the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its maritime transport system in accordance with the highest international standards. It also aims to support the mutual recognition of sailors’ competency certificates, thereby ensuring the proficiency of maritime personnel and enhancing maritime safety and security levels. He noted that the memorandum demonstrates the UAE’s eagerness to expand its international partnerships in the maritime sector and implement the provisions of the STCW convention, facilitating the movement of maritime competencies, enhancing the reliability of national certificates, and bolstering the competitiveness of the UAE-flagged fleet, in line with strategic goals intended to position the UAE as a leading global hub for maritime transport and services. He pointed out that this agreement is part of the country’s efforts to enhance its competitiveness in the maritime sector, strengthening its status as a global center for maritime transport and services through international partnerships and the development of best practices in maritime transportation.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
Honorable Naisau Twenavesi stated that signing this Memorandum of Understanding is an essential step in reinforcing bilateral cooperation between Fiji and the UAE in the maritime sector. It facilitates the international mobility of qualified sailors, enhances regulatory cooperation, and confirms both countries’ commitment to adhering to internationally recognized maritime safety and competency standards and workforce development.
The memorandum aims to foster bilateral cooperation in maritime education and training, as well as the mutual recognition of competency certificates issued by both parties. This collaboration will enhance the efficiency of maritime personnel working on vessels registered under both flags, improve maritime safety levels, protect the marine environment, and facilitate the movement of professional competencies in the maritime sector. Under the terms of the memorandum, both parties commit to implementing international agreement requirements and verifying that training, assessment systems, and certification issuance comply with approved standards. Additionally, the agreement allows for the exchange of technical visits to review certification approval, registration, and renewal processes and to ensure that health fitness standards for certificate holders are met.