The Italian government and Coast Guard has forwarded two circulars through the IMO:
• IMO Circ. 4231/add. 13, which allows for an unlimited extension of the following COPs until disembarkation:
• Basic Training
• Fast Rescue Boat
• Advanced Firefighting
Japan
The Japanese Ministry of Justice has circulated measures to mitigate the impact of the B117 variant of COVID19 which emerged in UK in December. All entry by foreigners are prohibited – though GAC Hot Port News reports that seafarers are exempted from these restrictions.
Persons with travel history to UK and South Africa are explicitly prohibited from entry.
Philippines
• Extension of STCW certificates for onboard and ashore Filipino seafarers