KUWAIT CITY, Dec 31: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the General Directorate of Coast Guard signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday to enhance cooperation in the field of marine environmental protection.

Brigadier General Sheikh Mubarak Ali Yousef Al-Sabah, Director General of the General Directorate of Coast Guard, explained in a press statement that the MoU aims to strengthen collaboration with KISR and support the administration's efforts to reduce marine pollution, particularly pollution resulting from ballast water and the emission of gaseous waters from ships.

Sheikh Mubarak emphasized that the administration's work in this area reflects Kuwait’s commitment to maintaining a positive and responsible image in the international community and demonstrates the country’s dedication to safeguarding the marine environment. This effort aligns with the implementation of signed international agreements and obligations.

He also noted that the cooperation would involve conducting research on various aspects of marine pollution reduction in accordance with international legislation and commitments, such as the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation, the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, and the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ballast Water and Sediments on Ships.

Dr. Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director General of KISR, expressed that the signing of the MoU with the General Directorate of Coast Guard reflects the institute’s capacity to tackle challenges through scientific research and the latest innovations. He highlighted the goal of limiting the degradation of the marine environment and ensuring its safety.

Dr. Al-Humaidan further explained that the MoU would facilitate specialized research, studies, conferences, seminars, scientific workshops, and lectures. The agreement also includes a joint effort to establish a national information database on marine pollutants, ballast water, and types of carbonated water. He emphasized the institute’s ongoing commitment to fostering cooperation with national institutions to address challenges and enhance their capabilities through research and study outcomes.

The MoU was signed by Brigadier General Sheikh Mubarak Ali Yousef Al-Sabah on behalf of the General Directorate of Coast Guard and Dr. Faisal Salman Al-Humaidan on behalf of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. The signing ceremony was attended by directors from both organizations and specialists in the field.