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he stated, %u201cthe new guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for the safe conduct of STS operations between bulk carriers, and there is no longer any excuse for practices that do not meet the required standards%u201d. The message is clear: all STS operations must be conducted in accordance with INTERCARGO%u2019s best practices, and all vessels involved must comply with the framework outlined in the new guide.Jacob Damgaard, Divisional Director and Head of Loss Prevention at the Britannia P&I Club, emphasised that %u201cthe existence of a unified framework is critical not only for safety but also from a commercial standpoint, as it creates a common point of reference for the industry and strengthens the position of companies%u201d. As he noted, %u201cthis effort is not the end, but the beginning of a broader process to enhance safety and consistency in the industry%u201d.Representatives of Chartworld Shipping Corporation, Kostas Petrakis, Director of HSQE, and Onnik Chatsikian, DPA, stated that %u201cthe guidelines introduce safety, uniformity, and clarity to dry bulk STS operations, strengthening risk management while providing a clear framework at the legal and insurance levels%u201d.Finally, representatives of Maran Dry Management Inc., Capt. Stamatis Dimitrakis, Operations Manager, and Capt. Panagiotis Nikiteas, DPA, CSO and HSQE Manager, emphasised that %u201cknowledge and information are power, which is why this publication is of particular importance. The new STS guidelines are essential in promoting operational consistency and reducing the risk of disruption. They demonstrate that the dry bulk sector is capable of self-regulation, while serving as a benchmark that will contribute to substantial improvements throughout the value chain%u201d.Also particularly noteworthy were the remarks offered by Capt. Mehmet Emin Atalay of Oldendorff Carriers and Tom Fitchew of Fendercare Marine, who emphasised the value and significant contribution this publication is expected to make to the operation of dry bulk carriers.The discussion was moderated by Mr Panagiotis Korakas, Executive Director of Isalos.net and Head of Cultural Heritage at Naftika Chronika.By convening stakeholders from across the maritime value chain, INTERCARGO aims to support a more integrated approach to STS transfers, with wider engagement expected as the industry works towards greater consistency in how these operations are carried out.Safe operationsRecent developments incritical maritime routes, such as the conflicts in the Strait of Hormuz, areintensifying the search for alternative supply chains, promoting solutions that involve transshipments betweenbulk carriers. It is, therefore, even moreimperative for all stakeholders to adoptmore structured, safe, efficient, andmutually acceptable procedures.140 NX