Decree No. 491 on the establishment and duties of the Undersecretariat of Maritime Affairs.

This Decree lays down rules for the establishment and duties of the Undersecretariat of Maritime Affairs to allocate and develop maritime systems and services in line with the country's maritime interests and needs. The duties of the Undersecretariat of Maritime Affairs include taking measures to encourage maritime trade, maritime trade fleet and ship industry; development of the maritime industry; maximizing marine and inland water potential; safety of navigation, life, property and the marine environment; taking measures to monitor and control the marine environment in order to prevent deterioration and marine pollution; taking port state measures; determination of the standards and principles related to the technical characteristics, competencies and equipment of vessels; certification and monitoring of vessels; registration of ships and seafarers, and determination of the principles regarding the training, examination and certification of seafarers; carrying out research in order to determine and implement national maritime-related targets and policies and strengthening the coordination between relevant institutions for effective implementation of national policies; coordination and monitoring all activities related to maritime and port services, and prevent illegal activities; and public awareness-raising.