Bahraini ship handling companies will not be affected by the signing of a new maritime agreement with Oman, according to a top minister.

Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Mohammed Al Kaabi told the Shura Council that the deal would prove beneficial for both the countries.

He was speaking during a debate on a new draft accord on maritime transport and seaports, at the weekly session of the upper chamber of the National Assembly yesterday.

Shura Council members unanimously approved the agreement and referred it to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification following Parliament approval last week.

“The agreement deals mainly with sea transport as we are set to expand our mutual maritime services,” said Mr Al Kaabi.

“We expect huge trade rewards from the agreement, which would reflect on the economy of both countries.

“Chandler services will be left to national or Bahrain-based operators and there will be no Omani competition.

“However, the agreement doesn’t disallow authorising chandlering services to operators from both countries.

“But it will be commissioned on a limited scale, should both parties agree to step in if there is need due to shortages or unavailability.”

Ship chandlers are a one-stop-shop that offer full service to vessel operators, including, but not limited to, food provisions, repairs, spare parts, safety inspections, medical supplies, general maintenance and much more.

Shura services committee vice-chairwoman Dr Ibtisam Al Dallal said the agreement would open bigger investment opportunities for Bahrainis in Oman.

“There are 490 joint business ventures between Bahrain and Oman and 900 Bahraini companies working in Oman and the move will ensure the emergence and formation of new commercial deals and higher flow,” she added.

The agreement, which was attached to Decree 3 of 2023, aims to regulate the movement of maritime traffic between Bahrain and Oman seaports in a manner that strengthens bilateral co-operation in this field, activates all means that facilitate the movement of maritime traffic and enhances trade exchange between the two countries.

It also includes rules that guarantee the safety and security of maritime navigation, which will be a catalyst for attracting regional and international investments to the kingdom, and facilitating the process of trade exchange between the two countries.

This agreement also aims to serve the economic interests of the citizens of the two countries, by providing effective international maritime transport services, increasing bilateral trade and ensuring consumer interests by encouraging private maritime transport institutions to deliver varied services to the public at competitive prices.

Meanwhile, the Shura Council was notified of two written replies from Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed on food safety and elderly services.

mohammed@gdnmedia.bh

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