Shura to vote on Bahrain and Kuwait shipping deal

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain and Kuwait are moving to ease the passage of ships between their ports, with a new agreement offering each other’s vessels better access and treatment.

The Shura Council is set to vote on Sunday on ratifying the deal, which has already been approved by Parliament.

Signed in Kuwait City on 20 October 2024, the agreement sets out rules for cargo and passenger transport, ship inspections, and safety measures.

It also ensures that Bahraini and Kuwaiti ships get the same level of help if they run into trouble at sea.

Training is another key part of the deal, with seafarers from both countries allowed to enrol in each other’s maritime schools at lower costs.

Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications have backed the move, saying it strengthens ties with Kuwait and fits within Bahrain’s existing maritime laws.

The Transportation Ministry described the agreement as a way to keep shipping routes open and running smoothly while bringing the industry in line with international standards.

Shura’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee has reviewed the bill and confirmed it is legally sound.

A legal opinion attached to the proposal states that, under Article 37(2) of Bahrain’s Constitution, such agreements must be ratified by law before they take effect.

The committee has urged its approval, pointing to its role in smoothing maritime operations and keeping trade flowing.

The deal also covers cooperation between Bahrain’s and Kuwait’s port authorities, rules on recognising documents for ships, cargo, and crews, and a framework for settling disputes through diplomatic channels.