The seminar brought together 70 crewing managers and processors from over 30 manning agents that regularly apply for maritime supervision at the Embassy. It provided a conducive backdrop for the Embassy to explain its role in the supervision of maritime services.
Ambassador Knut Solem kicked off the proceedings with a lively message on the importance of close collaborative efforts between the manning agencies and the Embassy. He underscored the role that these agencies play in fostering Norway’s bilateral ties in the maritime industry. “They are not just our clients,” he declared. “They are also our partners.”
The afternoon activities focused on the maritime supervision performed by the Embassy and the maritime control procedures in effect. A presentation helmed by Jannicke Steen of the maritime section gave participants a bird’s eye-view of the processes involved in their work. This touched on the supervision of maritime services on board vessels registered with the Norwegian International Ship Register or Norwegian Ordinary Register, mustering procedures and the process involved for applications for endorsements and Master’s dispensation.
The presentation also explained the personal responsibilities of seafarers when handling their certificates and endorsements, and measures that could be availed when these documents are lost. Latest information from NAV Maritime E/E Register and the Norwegian Maritime Directorate were also shared with the delegates. Throughout the event, the participants were invited to ask questions and share their insights.
To cap the program, Rose Lugue of the visa section delivered a talk on the new Application Portal and invited the manning agents to file their seafarers’ transit or business visa applications online.
The seminar was a timely opportunity for the agencies and the Embassy’s maritime section to meet and discuss recent trends in the industry. The delegates’ response to the seminar was overwhelmingly positive, and many expressed their appreciation for taking part in a refresher course on maritime control.