Libya's Jiliana Port has obtained a security compliance document, aligning with international standards for ship and port facility security. This development reflects the port's efforts to enhance its operational and security capabilities, crucial for building trust with shipping companies and reducing risks associated with vessel and cargo movement. The document was awarded after completing the required security procedures and plans, verifying compliance with adopted international standards.
The port's general manager, Captain Ahmed Al-Mamami, emphasized that this achievement demonstrates the port's commitment to international maritime security requirements. He praised the efforts of various departments and employees in completing the compliance requirements. This move is part of a broader strategy to transform port security from a regulatory procedure into a core component of its operations, providing a more organized and secure environment for carriers, cargo, and stakeholders.
The head of the Libyan Maritime Ports and Transport Authority, Engineer Mohamed Salem Al-Swehli, noted that obtaining the compliance document is not the end of the development process but rather the beginning of a phase requiring continuous training, awareness, and monitoring of updates related to the International Code for Ship and Port Facility Security. Compliance with international maritime security standards can reduce risks and costs associated with insurance and cargo transportation, improving the port's efficiency and ability to handle international shipping lines.
Before receiving the document, the port conducted specialized training programs and courses for employees and security officers, supervised by international expert Dr. Mourad Gharbal, who is certified by the International Maritime Organization. These programs included simulated scenarios for handling potential security incidents related to hazardous cargo, testing employees' response capabilities and enhancing coordination among concerned parties within the port facility.
The training programs aimed to improve employees' qualifications, readiness, and ability to handle various potential security situations. By providing such training, the port gains an additional advantage in risk management, particularly as safety and security standards in global maritime trade continue to grow, and shipping lines become increasingly sensitive to port efficiency and ability to provide a stable operating environment.
The compliance document is part of a broader effort to enhance the position of Jiliana Free Zone as a facility capable of supporting trade and investment, leveraging its location, operational capabilities, and developed security and safety systems. From an economic perspective, improving compliance and operational standards can attract more shipping and cargo traffic, opening the door to broader partnerships with stakeholders in the maritime transport sector.
The handover ceremony was attended by several officials and stakeholders from the ports, customs, maritime inspection, ship inspection, training, and security and safety sectors, indicating the extensive institutional work that preceded the document's issuance. The compliance document is not just a procedural certificate for Jiliana Port but a step towards developing performance, enhancing confidence in the facility, and creating more favorable conditions for maritime transport and trade growth.
Key points
- Jiliana Port's compliance with international security standards enhances its competitiveness and reduces trade risks.
- The port's training programs and courses improved employees' qualifications and readiness to handle potential security situations.
- The compliance document is expected to attract more shipping and cargo traffic, supporting the growth of trade and investment in the region.
