The Shura Council of Bahrain is set to vote on a maritime agreement with Kuwait aimed at improving ship access and treatment between their ports. It includes guidelines for cargo and passenger transport, safety measures, and training opportunities for seafarers. The agreement has been supported by relevant ministries and is intended to enhance maritime cooperation and trade.
The Shura Council of Bahrain is poised to vote on a significant maritime agreement with Kuwait that aims to enhance ship passage between their ports. This initiative, which has already received Parliamentary approval, was signed in Kuwait City on October 20, 2024, and seeks to improve access and treatment for vessels from both nations.
The agreement establishes comprehensive guidelines for cargo and passenger transport, mandates ship inspections, and incorporates critical safety measures. It guarantees that both Bahraini and Kuwaiti vessels will receive equivalent assistance in emergencies at sea, fostering a collaborative maritime environment.
Training provisions are a vital component of this accord, allowing seafarers from either country to attend maritime schools in the other nation at reduced costs. The Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, has expressed strong support for the agreement, highlighting its potential to bolster ties with Kuwait and align with existing maritime legislation.
The Ministry of Transportation emphasizes that this agreement will facilitate the smooth operation of shipping routes while ensuring adherence to international standards in the maritime industry. Following thorough review by the Shura’s Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee, the bill has been deemed legally sound.
According to a legal opinion attached to the proposal, any such agreements must be ratified by law to become effective, as stipulated in Article 37(2) of Bahrain’s Constitution. The committee advocates for the bill’s approval, underscoring its importance in enhancing maritime operations and supporting uninterrupted trade.
This maritime pact also addresses cooperation between the port authorities of Bahrain and Kuwait, stipulates rules for recognizing maritime documents for ships, cargo, and crews, and sets a framework for resolving maritime disputes via diplomatic avenues.
In conclusion, the forthcoming vote by the Shura Council on the Bahrain-Kuwait shipping agreement represents a significant step in enhancing maritime trade and operations between the two nations. With support from relevant ministries, the agreement aims to improve access for vessels, establish safety measures, and provide training opportunities for seafarers. Overall, this deal promotes strong cooperation and operational efficiency in the maritime domain.
Original Source: www.newsofbahrain.com
