
The General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) has entered into a revised partnership with Jawar Al Khaleej Shipping (JAK). The new 20-year agreement aims to build further on many years of co-operation between the two organisations. Services started on 1st March 2019, initially with JAK taking on responsibility for marine operations at all fixed oil terminals in Iraq, including berthing and unberthing activity. This will be followed in December this year by JAK providing marine services for all floating export facilities in Iraq as well.
The agreement further provides additional compliance services in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements. These include oil spill response, offshore medical/ambulance services, inspections under various conventions such as ISPS and Ballast Water Management, diving services, offshore accommodation and communication services and transport for pilots and navy inspectors, among others. To honour its responsibilities under the terms of the deal, JAK will make some significant investments, including the acquisition of 20 additional vessels of varying types. Among them will be new, and more powerful ASD tugs, which will be equipped with latest technology to ensure high levels of safety and operational efficiency.
JAK says the Iraqi government decided to partner with the company, which has local roots, after more than a decade of safe operations. JAK has also been able to demonstrate dedication to providing high quality equipment and services, and a commitment to generating local employment.
GCPI is a division of the Iraqi Ministry of Transport and is responsible for all Iraqi ports, marine facilities and transport. Jawar Al Khaleej Shipping is a marine services company with offices in Basra, Dammam and Dubai UAE.