Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) has authorized the China Classification Society (CCS) as a Recognized Organization (RO), to conduct survey and certification of ships flying the Cook Islands flag.
The formal agreement between MCI and CCS which is a full member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), will significantly open up opportunities for the Cook Islands Flag in China and will benefit shipowners in the region.
Shipowners in China can now use CCS for all certification services including Load Lines, Safety Construction, Safety Equipment, all MARPOL certificates ISM, ISPS and MLC. This translates essentially into costs savings for shipowners and more importantly, the upholding of the highest certification standards for the promotion and safeguarding of the safety of life and property at sea and for the prevention of pollution to the marine environment.
Up to now, CCS has been authorized by the administrations of more than 36 countries or regions to perform statutory surveys for the ships flying their flags, and recognized by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the European Union (EU), which demonstrates CCS’qualification and competence to the international community.
Glenn Armstrong, CEO of Maritime Cook Islands, said: “We are extremely pleased and excited to share this now and also to be linked to such an established and well respected organisation. I am certain that our clients will stand to gain the most from this and wewill look forward to continually improve our services and offerings to ourshipowners who have chosen to flag their ships with MCI. This is in line with our goal to become a world class flag registry and we anticipate to announce more of such initiatives later in the year.”
CCS Chairman and President, Sun Licheng is also pleased with the tie-up and he commented: “The Cook Islands Ship Registry is a well- respected ship registry which has a growing book of Chinese shipowners. We are glad to be partnering with the Maritime Cook Islands. In collaboration with MCI, we will continue to provide better services to the maritime industry and accomplish our historical mission of ensuring safer shipping and cleaner seas.”