Would you like to elevate Your Professional Standing and to be recognized as a Doctor ? Entries are invited for the EIU & IMC Doctorate Leadership Excellence Awards Ceremony!

We are pleased to announce that the European International University (EIU) Professional Doctorate & IMC Honorary Doctorate Leadership Excellence Awards Ceremony will be held on May 2nd, 2024 (Thursday) in Dubai. The event will commence at 10 AM and will conclude at 1 PM, followed by a Networking Lunch. This prestigious event is jointly organized by the European International University (EIU) and the International Maritime Club (IMC). We cordially invite Association Heads with over 25 years of professional experience in the Maritime or Oil & Gas industry to submit their nominations for this esteemed Doctorate. This is an opportunity to elevate your professional standing and to be recognized as a Doctor in your field. For more information about this upcoming award ceremony, please reach out to the IMC secretary at secretary@internationalmaritimeclub.com

Bulk Carrier Rubymar Sinks After Being Struck by Houthis it the Red Sea

Bulk carrier Rubymar, owned by the UK, has sunk in the Red Sea after being attacked by Houthi militants last month, reported Yemens internationally recognized government. The vessels cargo of fertilizer raises concerns of an "environmental catastrophe." This incident marks the first loss since the Houthis began targeting commercial shipping in November, prompting diversions of vessels on longer routes. The attacks, purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, have triggered retaliatory strikes by the US, UK, and other navies to safeguard the vital trade route. Italys defense ministry reported its naval ship downed a drone in the Red Sea, while the Houthi Transport Ministry alleged disruptions in undersea communication cables due to actions by US and British vessels. The Rubymar, partially submerged, was confirmed sunk by the US Central Command. Despite the UK Maritime Trade Operations agencys acknowledgment of a ship sinking, it did not specify. The attacked vessel, carrying over 41,000 metric tons of fertilizer, incurred significant damage and caused an 18-mile oil slick, according to the US military. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, Yemens foreign minister, lamented the Rubymars sinking as a new tragedy, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the internationally recognized government and the Houthi militia, backed by Saudi Arabia, since 2014.

Russia Banished From Membership in the Danube Commission

Russia has been banished from membership in the Danube Commission effective March 1, following a decision made by member states during the commission’s 100th Jubilee Session last December. This move comes amid continued sanctions against Russia by western powers due to its ongoing war in Ukraine. The decision was prompted by Russias systematic attacks on the lower Danube region, which violate the fundamental principles of the Belgrade Convention, according to a statement from the Commission. These attacks, which expanded to include Ukrainian port infrastructure on the Danube, contravene the Convention. Last year, several Russian drone attacks targeted Ukrainian grain facilities at the Danube River Port of Izmail, destroying over 10,000 metric tons of grain. Despite the resumption of Ukrainian grain exports through a special maritime corridor, the Danube route remains a critical alternative shipping route. The Danube Commission, one of the world’s oldest international organizations, aims to ensure and develop free navigation on the Danube River for merchant vessels flying the flags of its ten member states.

Netherlands to Spend Billions on Ships to Boost Defense Capacity

The Netherlands has committed to spending billions of euros over the next 15 years to replace most of its large surface ships, aiming to bolster its military capacity in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With four air defense and command frigates nearing the end of their service life, the Defense Ministry announced plans for their replacement, including the renewal of anti-aircraft missile armaments. While the precise spending figure was not disclosed, the governments defense budget has been on the rise since the invasion, reaching 1.7% of GDP at the end of last year, up from 1.15% in 2014. The move is expected to bring Dutch defense spending closer to NATO’s target of 2% of GDP. Outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte, an advocate for military support to Ukraine, is considered a frontrunner for the NATO secretary-general position, with backing from countries like the US and the UK. The government aims to involve Dutch maritime manufacturing companies in the frigate replacement project, including collaborations with Damen Naval and Thales Nederland, with State Secretary of Defense Christophe van der Maat highlighting the reinforcement of European strategic autonomy through this endeavor. The first new ship is slated to be operational by 2036, followed by others over the subsequent five years.

Funding announced for Wales’ Marine, Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry

Welsh Government unveils £1 million funding boost for the marine, fisheries, and aquaculture sector, spearheaded by Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths. The initiative, part of the Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme, seeks to foster sustainable growth and prosperity within coastal communities. Offering support for various endeavors, such as enhancing aquaculture sites and vessel equipment for emission reduction, the funding also extends to professional guidance spanning marine environmental sustainability to business strategies. Moreover, funding is available for research projects addressing health, safety, and wellbeing needs in the industry. With grants ranging from £500 to £100,000, interested parties have until May 10th to apply, with successful applicants set to be notified by July.

Dubai Harbour Marinas Becomes First In The World To Receive Three Simultaneous Accreditations From The Yacht Harbour Association

Dubai Harbour Marinas has secured a monumental trifecta of yachting credentials, becoming the first in the region to earn three coveted certifications at once. Awarded by The Yacht Harbour Association, the Gold Anchor, Clean Marinas, and Super Yacht Ready seals of approval officially designate Dubai Harbour Marinas as a pinnacle of global marina excellence. Presenter Jon White, General Manager, honoured Dubai Harbour Marinas for its pioneering achievement and steadfast commitment to elevating the luxury yachting industry through eco-conscious world-class facilities and service. Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Abdulla Binhabtoor expressed pride in earning such prestige for a marina in its maiden year while furthering Dubais identity as a prime yachting destination. With nearly 700 berths accommodating elite vessels up to 160 meters and sustainability at its core, Dubai Harbour Marinas is revolutionizing the maritime lifestyle. Its selection as host for the upcoming Dubai International Boat Show solidifies its meteoric rise to the peak of marina innovation.