The Maritime Administrator of the Vanuatu International Shipping Registry (VISR) has successfully concluded a three-day technical training session hosted by the Italian Coast Guard at the Genoa Training Center, from 20–22 October 2025.

 

The session brought together 15 VISR Flag State Surveyors and Inspectors in a series of in-depth workshops and interactive presentations conducted by Italian Coast Guard officers, focusing on Flag State and Port State responsibilities, inspection procedures, ship selection criteria, detention processes, and operational control practices aligned with IMO and Paris MoU frameworks.

  

Our Flag State surveyors demonstrated exceptional engagement throughout the training — asking insightful technical questions and sharing valuable experiences from their work across various Paris MoU ports. The discussions fostered a rich environment of mutual learning, highlighting the importance of continuous professional development in ensuring compliance and safety across the Vanuatu fleet.

  

The Italian Coast Guard kindly presented a commemorative plaque to the Vanuatu delegation as a token of appreciation for its participation and collaboration.

  

VISR gratefully recognizes the leadership and continued support of Mr. Saade Makhlouf, President of the Vanuatu International Shipping Registry, whose guidance and commitment were pivotal in coordinating this training program with the Italian Coast Guard.

  

VISR extends its deepest appreciation to Captain (ITCG) Pierluigi Milella, Head of the Port State Control Office at the Italian Coast Guard Headquarters, for his vision, dedication, and continuous support since the inception of this initiative. His leadership was instrumental in delivering the impactful training program.

  

Special thanks are also extended to Admiral Inspector (CP) Antonio Ranieri, Maritime Director of Liguria and Commander of the Port of Genoa, for his kind facilitation and hospitality in hosting the training at the Genoa Italian Coast Guard facilities.

  

VISR further wishes to express sincere gratitude to C.F. Stefano Carnevali, C.F. Enea Pecchi, and Capitano di Fregata (CP) Alessio Palmisano for delivering an exceptional and comprehensive training. Their professionalism, clarity, and in-depth expertise provided invaluable insight into Port State Control operations, inspection methodology, and safety management practices — leaving a lasting impression on all our Flag State Surveyors.

  

VISR is committed to excellence, safety, and cooperation within the global maritime community, ensuring that our surveyors continue to uphold the highest international standards in every port they serve.