Deputy Infrastructure and Energy Minister Enkelejda Muça presented a draft law today to the Assembly’s Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs. The bill concerns amendments adopted on May 30, 2025, to the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control, originally signed in 1982.

The amendments aim to bring national rules into line with international requirements for inspecting ships in ports. They cover vessels’ technical condition, navigational safety, and the protection of crew members’ lives and working conditions. According to Muça, the updated standards would also strengthen the capacity of the responsible authorities to enforce international conventions and requirements.

Muça described the initiative as an important step in the European Union accession negotiations, particularly under Chapter 14 on transport. It also forms part of preparations for membership in the Paris Memorandum. To support this process, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy is working with the General Maritime Directorate to align standards and prepare the necessary implementation measures.

Further, Muça clarified that the initiative concerns preparations for membership, rather than obligations arising from membership already achieved.

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