Rezvani, CEO of Negin Sabz Middle East: Most Ship Pilots Are Seafarers and Request Opportunities to Sail in Order to Renew Their Certificates

The CEO of Negin Sabz Middle East Marine Engineering & Services Company stated that most ship pilots are professional seafarers and have requested that appropriate conditions be provided to allow them to sail in order to keep their competency certificates up to date.

Siavash Rezvani, speaking on the second day of the First Annual Ship Pilots Conference, noted that 12 papers were presented over the two-day event, all of which were of a high standard and addressed diverse and discussion-worthy topics relevant to the pilotage profession.He emphasized that due to the outdated nature of existing Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) software, comprehensive reviews and upgrades are required, along with the deployment of more specialized personnel in providing services to vessel operators, in order to reduce the risk of maritime incidents.

Rezvani also pointed out the lack of sufficient pilotage operational guidelines, stressing that this issue should be formally followed up through the Ports and Maritime Organization of Iran. Highlighting the importance of developing integrated systems for accident and near-miss reporting, Rezvani stated that such systems would enable the systematic recording of lessons learned in maritime operations. He further emphasized the necessity of upgrading VTS communication systems through GIS-based networks, enhancing radar equipment, and providing specialized training for effective VTS monitoring and analysis.

Referring to the declining water levels of the Caspian Sea in recent years and the resulting logistical challenges and bottlenecks, Rezvani stressed that the use of advanced hydrographic equipment and the provision of updated navigational information to ship pilots must be prioritized to enhance operational safety.He also underscored the importance of strengthening sea-oriented policies and increasing cooperation among Caspian Sea littoral states to attract greater maritime traffic.

As Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Negin Sabz Middle East, Rezvani addressed the Deputy for Maritime Affairs of the Ports and Maritime Organization, stating that ship pilots—most of whom are seafarers and over 90% of whom have successfully passed competency examinations—have requested that arrangements be made to allow them to sail periodically in order to maintain and renew their professional certificates.

In closing, Rezvani expressed his appreciation to all participants of the First Annual Ship Pilots Conference, with special thanks to the Director General of Ports and Maritime Administration of Gilan Province, noting that the smooth and well-organized execution of the event was the result of the cooperation and support of Mr. Younesi and his colleagues.