KUWAIT: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the General Directorate of the Coast Guard signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday, to strengthen cooperation in marine environmental protection and combat pollution.

In a statement to the press, Sheikh Mubarak Ali Yousef Al-Sabah, Director General of the General Directorate of the Coast Guard, explained that the MoU aims to support the efforts of the Coast Guard in reducing marine pollution, particularly that caused by ballast water and the spread of various harmful substances from vessels.

Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah emphasized that the Coast Guard’s efforts reflect Kuwait’s commitment to preserving marine safety on a broader scale, in line with its obligations under international conventions. He highlighted the importance of implementing signed agreements to maintain the country’s marine environment.

The cooperation with the institute, he said, will also include conducting research studies on various aspects of marine pollution control in accordance with international laws and agreements. This includes the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation; the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships; and International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments.

Sheikh Mubarak Ali Yousef Al-Sabah, Director General of the General Directorate of the Coast Guard, and Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director General of KISR, sign an agreement to enhance protection of Kuwait's marine environment on December 30, 2024.

Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director General of KISR, also spoke about the significance of the MoU, noting that it reflects the Coast Guard’s ability to confront environmental challenges through scientific research, innovation, and best practices to mitigate marine pollution and ensure the protection of marine ecosystems.

He added that the MoU involves conducting specialized research, organizing conferences, seminars, scientific workshops, and lectures. It also includes the creation of a national database on marine pollutants and ballast water, further reinforcing KISR’s ongoing collaboration with national institutions to enhance capabilities and address challenges through research and studies.

The MoU was signed by Sheikh Mubarak Ali Yousef Al-Sabah, Director General of the General Directorate of the Coast Guard, and Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director General of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, in the presence of directors of various departments and specialists from both parties. — KUNA