Decree No. 18/2021 - Approves the Cooperation Agreement between the Portuguese Republic and the Republic of India in the Field of Maritime Transport and Ports, signed in New Delhi on 14 February 2020.

This Decree-Law approves the Cooperation Agreement between the Portuguese Republic and the Republic of India in the Field of Maritime Transport and Ports, signed in New Delhi on 14 February 2020. This Agreement establishes the legal regime applicable to cooperation between the Parties in the field of maritime transport and ports with a view to promoting maritime traffic and the maritime transport industry between them, as well as coordinating actions in the fields of navigation control, search and maritime rescue, combating pollution, protecting the marine environment and exchanging information. It also intends to expand and deepen technical and institutional cooperation between the Parties, promote cooperation and the establishment of new partnerships between Portuguese and Indian public and private entities, with a view to stimulating mutual investment and other forms of economic cooperation. This Agreement applies to all aspects relating to cooperation between the Parties in the field of maritime transport and ports, excluding: a) Warships and coast guard missions; b) Hydrographic, oceanographic and scientific research vessels; c) Fishing vessels and fishing ports; d) Recreational boats; e) Ships intended for port services, namely pilotage, towing, rescue and assistance at sea, as well as other maritime work, national cabotage and inland navigation.