The Ministry of Transport (MoT) and Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) have issued a statement affirming that the vessel MT Eagle S, which has recently attracted international attention due to an undersea cable incident in the Gulf of Finland, is not subject to any sanctions. This declaration aims to clarify misconceptions surrounding the vessel’s compliance with international maritime regulations.
In their joint response, the authorities highlighted that Finland’s investigation into the Eagle S, following a detention that unveiled concerns regarding damage to the Estlink-2 undersea power cable, concluded that the vessel did not breach sanctions imposed on Russian oil trades by the G7, EU, and Australia. The vessel was ultimately released with its cargo intact, and cooperation between Cook Islands representatives and Finnish officials was positively noted.
The Eagle S, flagged under the Cook Islands, has been scrutinized amid broader concerns about its potential connection to a “shadow fleet” suspected of evading sanctions. Finnish authorities discovered that the vessel was missing its port-side anchor during an inspection, triggering further investigation.
The MoT and MCI reaffirmed that no vessels on the Cook Islands Ship Register are under sanctions and emphasized their commitment to compliance with international standards. They mentioned active involvement in a Sanctions Monitoring Program, supporting vessels engaging in Russian petroleum activities to adhere to existing sanctions agreements.
To maintain high maritime safety standards, MCI is preparing for an upcoming audit by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which assesses the effectiveness of member states’ maritime regulations. A mock audit by Maritime New Zealand has already taken place to bolster the administration’s oversight and management practices.
These actions signify the Cook Islands’ dedication to strengthening its maritime sector amidst growing scrutiny and emphasize a commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance in international waters. In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, the region can find hope in the strengthened collaboration and commitment to upholding maritime safety and security.
Overall, the vigilance showcased by the Cook Islands authorities reflects a proactive stance in promoting good governance in maritime operations, ensuring that compliance and safety remain top priorities.
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