Interview by : Iyead KhalilÂ
In a professional environment characterized by increasing volatility and challenges, Captain Mouayad Walio‘s name has emerged within the maritime transport sector in Syria and the region. During an exceptional period, he achieved commendable operational and professional stability, successfully managing Orient Fleet – Syria.
In an exclusive interview with Maritime Tickers Captain Mouayad Walio emphasizes that the new Syrian administration has established a General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, linked to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Transport. This is a serious step that reflects the new administration’s interest in facilitating matters in this regard
He remembers several years ago, my ship was hijacked by pirates 900 nautical miles off the Somali coast and remained held captive for 25 months. Despite not paying the ransom demanded by the ship owner, I was able, through diplomacy and the ability to communicate and persuade, to emerge from this crisis safely and securely.
At the beginning Can you tell us about your career in the maritime sector?
I began my career in the United Arab Emirates, where I honed my maritime skills by holding several pivotal positions in the UAE’s shipping sector before joining Eastern Fleet, most notably: Marine Supervisor, DIVERS MARINE CONTRACTING, 2016-2018 (UAE) Captain, Container Ship (DUBAI) – MARMED LINES 2020 Operations Manager (DUBAI) – MARMED LINES 2021 In addition to previous experience in shipping and operations management, In 2021, Captain Mu’ayyad returned to Syria to take over the management of Eastern Fleet. To date, despite the exceptional challenges Syria has faced and the impact it has had on the maritime sector, he continues to successfully manage the company.
Can we know who Captain Moayad Waliu is?
I am borned in Latakia, Syria, and obtained several internationally accredited academic and professional qualifications, most notably: – Sea Captain – Kingdom of Jordan, 2018 – Chief Officer Certificate of Competency – Merchant Vessels –Â Egypt, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport AASTMT, 2013 – International Arbitration Certificate in Marine Engineering Disputes – Cairo University, Center for African Studies and Research, 2013
Have you faced challenges during your career?
Since assuming the position of General Manager, Eastern Fleet has been managed through a carefully considered and integrated approach that ensures direct supervision of: * Maintenance and technical repair operations for the company’s fleet. * Management of all aspects of operational vessels. * Developing and qualifying human resources in line with developments in the global maritime transport sector. Despite the complex economic and political conditions that Syria has faced in recent years, we have been able to maintain the company’s continued operations with high efficiency, relying on a scientific management approach that balances operational sustainability with the rights of the crews on board the three vessels operated by the company.
How do you see the maritime transport sector in Syria today in its new era?
Today, after Syria’s liberation, the new leadership in Syria announced a free economy. This will represent a major qualitative shift and will contribute to improving the economy, wages, and salaries. The new Syrian administration has also established a Land and sea Ports General Authority linked to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Transport. This is a serious step that reflects the new administration’s interest in facilitating matters in this regard. The country is open to all investments from all countries, and I also expect all sectors in Syria to witness significant development. I am very optimistic about Syria’s future. The country has become more open and free, which will contribute to attracting investments.
We heard that you were kidnapped by pirates incident. Can you tell us about it?
Yes, several years ago, my ship was hijacked by pirates 900 nautical miles off the Somali coast and remained held captive for 25 months. Despite not paying the ransom demanded by the ship owner, I was able, through diplomacy and the ability to communicate and persuade, to emerge from this crisis safely and securely.
Related : Sabra : Syria has returned as a major player in Maritime Sector
