Fiji has recently established new job prospects for its seafarers through a significant agreement with the United Arab Emirates aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation. This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) facilitates the mutual recognition of maritime qualifications, enabling Fijian seafarers to work on UAE-flagged vessels and expand their employment opportunities across the Gulf region.
The MOU was officially signed in Abu Dhabi during the sixteenth session of the International Renewable Energy Agency Assembly. Naisa Tuinaceva, the Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, represented the Fijian government in this pivotal agreement with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
This landmark agreement aligns with Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The recognition of Fiji’s maritime qualifications will allow Fijian seafarers to pursue employment in the UAE and throughout the broader Gulf Cooperation Council region, ensuring compliance with international maritime safety and competency standards.
Under this MOU, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is designated as the competent authority. It is responsible for issuing and verifying certificates in accordance with the agreement and ensuring that Fiji’s certification processes adhere to global best practices.
Tuinaceva emphasized that this agreement marks a major advancement for Fijian seafarers, providing them with direct access to international shipping and maritime job opportunities while upholding high global standards. He noted that this development further cements Fiji’s reputation as a reliable maritime nation according to the STCW Convention.
The agreement is effective immediately and will remain in force for five years, with the possibility of renewal, paving the way for a prosperous future for Fijian seafarers in the international maritime industry.
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