Oman, Cyprus Sign MoUs on Maritime and Seafarer Cooperation
Date Published: 03 February 2025
Oman and Cyprus Sign Two MoUs to Enhance Maritime Cooperation and Mutual Recognition of Seafarers’ Certificates
As part of efforts to strengthen cooperation in the maritime sector, the Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, and the Republic of Cyprus, represented by the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, have signed two first MoU focuses on enhancing cooperation in maritime affairs, while the second concerns the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates issued by both countries in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) of 1978 and its amendmentsMemoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
The agreements were signed by H.E. Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, on behalf of Oman, and H.E. Marina Hadjimanolis, Deputy Minister of Shipping, on behalf of Cyprus.
Under the MoU on maritime affairs, both parties will work towards strengthening bilateral relations while adhering to national and international laws, emphasising the principles of equality, mutual benefit, and freedom of navigation. The agreement includes cooperation in advancing the maritime sector through the adoption of modern technology, enhancing maritime safety and security, preventing pollution from ships, addressing ship registration issues, and combating illicit activities such as piracy. Additionally, it aims to tackle climate change challenges by reducing carbon emissions in the maritime transport sector. The MoU also encompasses the exchange of information, expertise, and best practices in maritime education and training, as well as improving seafarers’ working conditions.
The second MoU provides for the mutual recognition of certificates issued under the STCW Convention, ensuring that certificates for captains, officers, and radio operators comply with the convention’s standards. This guarantees that seafarers receive training and competency assessments in accordance with the highest quality standards.
This collaboration aligns with the shared efforts of both countries to enhance integration in the maritime transport sector, serving their strategic interests.