The CR Classification Society (CR) and the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) held a grand signing ceremony for the authorization contract on February 12, 2025, Panama time. The signing ceremony was signed by CR CEO Zheng Zhiwen and PMA Director General of the Merchant Marine, Mr. Ramón Franco, symbolizing that the Panama Maritime Authority continues to authorize CR to conduct ship inspections and certification operations for ships flying the Panamanian flag.
The signing of this agreement consolidates the close cooperative relationship between the two parties that has lasted for 63 years since 1962, and further demonstrates the determination of both parties to cooperate in the long term in the fields of ship inspection, statutory supervision and maritime safety. At the ceremony, CEO Cheng Chi-wen said: "We are honored and proud to have worked with PMA for more than 60 years and witnessed the changes and progress of the global shipping environment together. The signing of this authorization contract not only shows PMA's high recognition of CR's technical capabilities and professional services, but also strengthens our joint commitment to jointly promote the development of international shipping safety and maritime standards." He further emphasized: "CR will continue to uphold the concept of high-quality service, continuously improve inspection technology and innovative research and development, and ensure that every Panamanian ship sails safely in compliance with strict standards."
PMA said that when it came to Taiwan to audit CR in 2023, it was impressed and highly affirmed by CR's inspection capabilities and service quality, especially CR's continuous efforts to improve PSC performance and regularly organize maritime notifications to ship owners. It recognized and hoped that CR would continue to perform inspections for Panamanian ships. Through this signing ceremony, CR and PMA also conducted in-depth exchanges and discussions on issues such as ship registration, alternative fuel use, and remote inspection. CR is an important think tank of the Chinese government in the field of ship inspection and maritime safety. In addition to continuously improving its professional and technical capabilities, it also actively cooperates and exchanges with international governments, inspection units and research institutions. Its performance in ship inspection is deeply trusted by Chinese shipowners. CR also promises to continue to provide customers with efficient, high-quality professional services in the future, hoping to contribute to my country's maritime industry.
