Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, met with Francis Zachariae Secretary-General of the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), and an accompanying delegation. The meeting was attended by ministry officials specialising in ports and maritime navigation affairs.
The discussions focused on enhancing technical cooperation, sharing professional expertise, and exchanging information in areas related to maritime navigation safety. The meeting addressed the development of navigation systems, provision of aids to navigation to safeguard lives and property, reduction of maritime accidents, and collaboration with manufacturers and suppliers of modern maritime safety technologies.
Dr. Shaikh Abdullah emphasised the ministry’s interest in expanding cooperation and partnerships with IALA, particularly in benefiting from its expertise and training programmes to build national capacities. He highlighted efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of vessel movement, optimise the installation, operation, and maintenance of navigation aids, and contribute to environmental protection and maritime safety in Bahrain’s territorial waters. These efforts align with international laws, standards, and best practices.
Francis Zachariae expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with IALA. He commended the focus on sharing technical and organisational expertise to support Bahrain’s efforts in enhancing maritime safety and security, improving standards, and advancing technologies to protect global shipping routes.
BNA(R)
