Korea and Singapore strengthen cooperation in Maritime Safety

The Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs (MLTM) held its first bilateral meeting on maritime safety with Singapore.

MLTM and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to further cement the excellent relations between Singapore and the Republic of Korea in the maritime domain, and to facilitate even closer co-operation between MPA and MLTM.

This MOU provides a platform for both MPA and MLTM to enhance their collaborative efforts in the maritime field to promote the safety of navigation and the protection of the marine environment. Its scope includes cooperation in international forums such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP), and the Co-operative Mechanism for Safety of Navigation and Environmental Protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. MPA and MLTM will also share maritime technical expertise through forums, workshops and seminars.

Following the signing of the MOU, MPA's Chief Executive Lam Yi Young is confident that it will bolster further exchanges between both parties. ?his MOU is not only a reflection of the current close cooperation between MPA and MLTM, but is also a new milestone for both sides as we seek to further enhance our cooperation in promoting safety of navigation, protection of the marine environment, and maritime and port security,?says Mr Lam.

Mr Lim Ki-Tack, Director-General for Maritime Safety of MLTM says the MOU marks yet another milestone in MPA and MLTM's relations. ?s IMO Council member states, the Republic of Korea and Singapore have made great contributions to the international community to ensure maritime safety and the development of the shipping industry.

This MOU provides opportunities to pursue cooperation beyond the IMO, including ReCAAP-based cooperation against the threat of piracy in Asia as well as the promotion and enhancement of navigational safety in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore,?says Mr Lim.