KARACHI, Sept 4: Pakistani seafarers will be issued machine readable seafarer identity document to get easy entry and exits to and from the ports of different countries participating ILO Convention, official sources said here on Sunday.

The government shipping office has sought help of National Database and Registration Authority’s (Nadra) assistance for the issuance of Machine Readable Seafarer Identity Document (MRSID).

A highly secure and authentic issue procedure will enable its acceptance by the international community and the decision makers of each country vis-a-vis their policies of granting permission to go ashore for joining ships and leave after the agreed period of service of seafarers.

Seafarers work and live on ships involve international trade and access to shore facilities. Shore leave is vital element of seafarers’ general well-being and, therefore, the achievement of such a document would be a milestone, sources added.

The resolutions regarding seafarers access to the ship for joining and exit purposes were signed by the members in ILO convention, Pakistan being the signatory of the convention agreed to develop and commission new system as per criteria set by ILO convention, sources added.

International Shipping and Immigration Authorities will be looking at a tamper proof security document complying with ILO standards.

The issuance of MRSID will open new opportunities for Pakistani seafarers to work on international ships and other ports.—APP