European Parliament approves EU/China maritime agreement

European Parliament approves EU/China maritime agreement    The European Parliament has approved a proposed European Union/China maritime transport agreement under a consultation procedure.
   During their review, members of the European Parliament requested that concerns about the registration of third country flags within the scope of this agreement be evaluated in subsequent renewals.
   The parliament said that the bilateral agreement is seen as an opportunity to promote maritime relations between the two regions and their economic operators on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. The pact is based on the principles of freedom to provide maritime services, unrestricted access to, and non-discriminatory treatment in the use of ports and commercial presence.
   The agreement is for an initial period of five years and will be renewed on a yearly basis. The agreement is expected to be confirmed by the European Council of transport ministers.