On December 5-6, 2024, the annual meeting on cooperation for receiving, processing, and distributing Cospas-Sarsat emergency alert data between Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia took place in Vientiane, Laos. This event marked a significant step forward in enhancing regional coordination for maritime and aviation rescue operations. The Vietnamese delegation was led by Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thao, Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, Vietnam Maritime Administration. Accompanying him were Mr. Phan Ngoc Quang, General Director of the Vietnam Maritime Communication and Electronics Company Limited (VISHIPEL), along with representatives from the Research and Development Department and the MCC/VNLUT station.
At the meeting, VISHIPEL presented a report assessing the results of the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) implemented during 2021-2024 between Vietnam and its neighboring countries. The report highlighted achievements in rescue coordination and proposed solutions to improve future cooperation. Additionally, VISHIPEL provided updates on technological advancements in the Cospas-Sarsat system, shared information about Vietnam’s MEOLUT project, and discussed updates regarding Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT-DT). Another key topic of discussion was training programs and technical support. VISHIPEL reaffirmed its commitment to upgrading the SPOC FTP-V software for Laos and Cambodia to enhance emergency alert data processing efficiency. These activities confirmed VISHIPEL's regional role in strengthening rescue capabilities and ensuring maritime and aviation safety.
The meeting concluded successfully with representatives from the governments of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia signing a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation for receiving, processing, and distributing Cospas-Sarsat emergency alert data. This agreement not only reinforced collaboration among the three nations but also set the stage for further development in regional rescue operations. As a key player in maritime communication, VISHIPEL continues to affirm its leadership role in international cooperation, contributing to safety and sustainable development in the maritime and aviation sectors. The 2024 Cospas-Sarsat annual meeting is a proof to the joint efforts of Southeast Asian nations to protect human lives and property at sea and in the air.
