The 23rd BS MoU Port State Control Committee (PSCC23)

The Black Sea Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control is a system of harmonized inspection procedures, having as main objective improvement of safety of navigation, identification of sub-standards ships and their eventual elimination. In 2000, the Black Sea Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control was signed by 6 Black Sea countries: Russian Federation, Georgia, Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania. In accordance with the international regulations stipulated by International Conventions in the maritime field, the main responsibility for ship safe condition is addressed to the flag State – the State under which flag the ship is registered.

Port State Control (PSC) comes into the scene when shipowners, classification societies and flag State administrations have failed to comply with the requirements of the international maritime conventions. Although it is well understood that the ultimate responsibility for implementing conventions is left to the flag States, Port States are entitled to control foreign ships visiting their own ports to ensure that any deficiencies found are rectified before they are allowed to sail.