Nicosia: The Shipping Deputy Ministry reiterated on Saturday its recommendation to the owners and operators of Cyprus flagged vessels to avoid any callings and transactions at foreign ports and/or countries where political instability and/or armed and/or civil conflicts take place (or are evidently imminent).
According to Cyprus News Agency, a circular signed by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Theodoulos Mesimeris, advises owners, operators, managers, and masters of Cyprus flagged vessels operating in or transiting through such areas to maintain increased vigilance and close communication with Port and Flag State authorities and local shipping agents. This is in accordance with the requirements of the ISPS Code, emphasizing the need to enhance the implementation of security measures aboard to protect the vessel and its crew.
The circular further recommends that due to ongoing military escalation, Cyprus flagged vessels operating in the affected areas implement security measures equivalent to ISPS Security Level 3. These measures should be in line with their approved Ship Security Plans and involve a careful assessment of the security-related situation at each port call or when navigating through territorial waters. Vessels are advised to implement appropriate security measures aboard to ensure the safety of the vessel and its crew.
Additionally, vessel operators are advised to reassess transit through the Strait of Hormuz and other affected areas, considering remaining at a safe port or anchorage in neighboring countries outside the affected areas until conditions stabilize. Continuous monitoring of navigational warnings (NAVTEX) in the area is recommended, and any security-related incidents should be immediately reported to the Shipping Deputy Ministry.