TIRANA, Oct 28 /ATA/ Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Enkelejda Muça, presented today to the Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs the draft law “On the Acceptance of the Amendments Adopted on 30 May 2025 to the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control”, done in Paris on 26 January 1982, which Albania acceded to by Law No. 9852, dated 26 December 2007.
During the presentation, Muça emphasized that the amendments aim to update and improve the standards related to port state control of vessels in the Republic of Albania, aligning the national framework with international criteria and requirements.
She explained that updating the memorandum brings more advanced standards for the technical inspection of vessels navigating and anchoring in Albanian ports.
These standards pertain not only to the condition of the vessels, but also to their technical safety, maritime navigation safety, and the protection of the lives and working conditions of the crews.
According to Muça, improving the regulatory framework will enhance the capacities of the Albanian authorities responsible for port control, enabling the implementation of criteria established by international conventions and standards.
She described this initiative as an important step within the framework of Albania’s EU accession negotiations, particularly regarding Chapter 14, which covers transport policy.
Muça underlined that one of the objectives is to prepare Albania for membership in the Paris Memorandum of Understanding by aligning domestic legislation and port state control practices with the organization’s standards.
She emphasized that the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, in cooperation with the General Maritime Directorate, is working on aligning these standards and preparing the necessary measures for the implementation of this act.
According to the Deputy Minister, updating the standards will help enhance the quality and safety of maritime transport, as well as strengthen Albania’s role in the region, by ensuring that vessels calling at Albanian ports meet internationally required criteria.
Muça also clarified that the initiative relates to preparations for membership rather than fulfilling the conditions of an already completed accession. She announced that work is underway to meet the relevant requirements, while any obligations and implications associated with membership will be evaluated in accordance with the relevant framework.
The draft law thus aims to contribute to the European integration process, the standardization of port control, and the improvement of the safety and quality of maritime transport in Albania.
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