Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath Nahula has stated the government is working with Seafarer's Rights International to implement the Maritime Labour Convention into law.
In her statement on World Maritime Day, Minister Nahula said the work is part of the efforts to guarantee fair treatment of seafarers and to ensure seafarers and marine personnel are recognised as key workers in the Maldives. In her statement, the minister said the Maldives joined the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 1967 and appointed a permanent representative to the organisation in July this year. She highlighted the importance of fostering and elevating the seafaring profession by the member states and said the success of the maritime industry depends on an adequate supply of highly qualified maritime personnel. As such, she announced the government has signed an agreement with Maldives National University (MNU) to train deck officers and engine officers in a bid to ensure the country is providing enough opportunities to the younger generation and those who wish to start a career in the maritime industry.
Furthermore, the transport minister said the government will support any initiative undertaken by the maritime industry partners in training a highly qualified maritime workforce. The minister also called on state-owned enterprises to take initiatives and highlighted the importance of engaging with stakeholders through dialogue and in-depth discussions. Additionally, she expressed appreciation for Maldivian seafarers and port workers who have toiled hard to make the maritime sector an important contributor to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.