Basra: Iraqi ports have confirmed their commitment to advancing maritime safety through a collaboration with the British Hydrographic Office (UKHO). This initiative aims to strengthen the maritime safety system and develop the infrastructure necessary for modern, efficient port operations.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the General Company for Iraqi Ports has emphasized the strategic significance of forming technical partnerships with international bodies. These collaborations are seen as pivotal in enhancing maritime safety systems. A recent meeting underscored this commitment, with Dr. Saleh Hussein Ali Al-Tamimi, Iraq's Ambassador to the United Kingdom, engaging with Chris Hunt, Director of the UKHO for the Middle East and Africa. The meeting was attended by several UKHO officials and the Iraqi Maritime Attach©, Captain Mazen Al-Kaabi.
The talks focused on enhancing technical cooperation in hydrographic surveying and the production of nautical charts, which are essential for safe navigation in Iraqi waters and access to its ports. Such cooperation is expected to bolster national capacity-building programs by incorporating expertise aligned with international standards. The meeting highlighted the importance of finalizing a memorandum of understanding between the two parties, marking a strategic step towards improved hydrographic surveying and the creation of precise navigational charts.
Captain Alaa Abdul-Hassan Al-Akeeli, Director General of the General Company for Iraqi Ports, expressed the company's ongoing dedication to fostering relationships with the International Maritime Organization and other global maritime entities. He underscored that leveraging their specialized expertise would significantly contribute to the advancement of Iraq's maritime transport sector.
Al-Akeeli further explained that partnering with the UK Hydrographic Office is a critical move towards updating the hydrographic survey system and nautical charts in compliance with international standards. This collaboration is expected to enhance maritime safety and increase the operational efficiency of Iraqi ports, enabling them to handle the rising volume of trade.
Moreover, the company is committed to executing programs that aim to modernize maritime infrastructure and services while building national technical capabilities. These efforts will help position Iraqi ports as a central logistics hub in the region, catering to the expanding needs of the maritime transport industry.
The UK Hydrographic Office is renowned globally for its expertise in producing nautical charts and navigational services, providing critical information to about 90% of the world's merchant ships. The collaboration with UKHO is anticipated to significantly bolster Iraq's maritime safety system and improve port efficiency by adopting best international practices.