Africa-Press – Mauritius. The opening ceremony of a four-day workshop focusing on Port Facility Security Risk Assessment Training, was held, this morning, at the United Docks Business Park, Port Louis.
The training is being organised by the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in collaboration with the Indian Ocean Commission and the European Union.
The Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Mr Sudheer Maudhoo; IMO Consultant, Mr Mourad Ghorbel; the Director of Shipping of the Shipping Division; Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Captain Asiva Coopen; and other personalities were present.
In his keynote speech, the Minister emphasised the primary goal of the workshop, that is, a comprehensive review and reassessment of maritime security laws in Mauritius.
He underscored the pivotal role of the IMO in evaluating port security within the country. The Minister highlighted the workshop’s critical importance in providing essential training, particularly in light of recent incidents in the Red Sea.
He pointed out that due to cargo ships taking detours, the number of cargo vessels utilising the South-East coast is expected to increase from 40 000 to 60 000, impacting the economy with a surge in freight.
Underlining the workshop’s significance, Mr Maudhoo stressed the necessity of training for both public and private sector personnel under the guidance of the IMO.
He also outlined the IMO’s recommendations for implementing more robust port and sea security measures while expressing gratitude for the organisation’s support and provision of consultants to enhance the knowledge and skills of Mauritian personnel.
For his part, Mr Ghorbel spoke of Mauritius’ adherence to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). He dwelt on the IMO’s role in evaluating safety measures for port and shipping security during the four-day training.
As for Captain Coopen, he delved into the International Shipping and Port Security (ISPS) Code, a SOLAS Convention chapter, highlighting Mauritius’s longstanding commitment to its implementation.
He acknowledged the country’s comprehensive adoption of the system for shipping and port security. He noted the evolving definition of maritime security, expanding beyond terrorism to include issues like human trafficking and illegal drug trade.
Captain Coopen emphasised the urgency of upgrading maritime security, given the increased traffic through Mauritius and the use of the Cape of Good Hope route due to the Red Sea conflict.
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