NMSA conducts seminar

THE Papua New Guinea National Maritime Safety Authority launched its 20th seminar for Port State Control Officers in Asia-Pacific region at the Lamana Hotel yesterday.
The two-day seminar provides an avenue for officers to share their experiences and expertise and update their know­ledge for closer co-operation and co-ordination on port control in the region.
Being a port state and having the shipping industry prioritised, PNG aims to establish an effective port control in the Asia-Pacific region.
Executive manager of maritime operations division NMSA Capt
Nurur Rahman said PNG had many similarities with its neighbours because it was an island nation.
In his opening address, he stressed the importance of shipping in the country’s economy.
“Without ships to export our mineral resources, our oil, gas, forestry and fisheries products to overseas markets, our economy would collapse,” Rahman said.
He also highlighted the partnership between the NMSA and the Transport Department in ensuring the sustainable development of the shipping industry for economical development.
With the slow pro­cess and recent tragedies, PNG was still working towards improving safety standards of its domestic fleet, he said.
The country was also preparing to apply for a Voluntary Member State Audit Scheme (VIMSAS) through the International Maritime
Organisation (IMO).
About 20 member states attended the seminar which ends tomorrow.