Azerbaijan highlights rich maritime traditions at Paris IALA meeting

Azerbaijan has rich maritime traditions and history and is currently implementing consistent measures to develop maritime transport infrastructure in line with international standards, Mazahir Niftiev, Director of the Vessel Traffic Management Centre, has stated.

During the 4th session of the Council of the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation, held in Paris, he said Azerbaijan attaches great importance to cooperation with the organisation, emphasising the country’s support for initiatives aimed at strengthening maritime safety and protecting the marine environment, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The organisation was formerly named the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).

Discussions at the session focused on international maritime navigation, shipping safety, the development of navigational aid systems, the use of digital technologies in the sector, key areas of IALA’s activities, and the expansion of cooperation between member states.

Participants highlighted that expanding experience-sharing, strengthening technical cooperation, and introducing modern navigation technologies are essential for the safe and sustainable development of global maritime transport.

On the sidelines of the event, Niftiev also held several meetings, including talks with IALA President Marcos Almeida and Secretary General Francis Zacharia, where views were exchanged on ongoing vessel traffic management projects and prospects for future cooperation.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov