JEDDAH, 29 March 2007 — Vela International Marine Ltd. announced recently the appointment of Capt. Assem Ashary, the first Saudi national to serve as captain aboard a Vela tanker. Capt. Ashary took command of the M/V Altair Star at Jeddah Islamic Port.
“We are proud that Capt. Ashary has made his career with us at Vela,” said Capt. Bader Ghouth, Vela’s manager of Operations. “Attaining command of a modern supertanker is the apex of honor in today’s maritime industry.”
In December 2006, Vela won the SeaTrade Dubai International Maritime Award for its cadet training program, and Ashary’s appointment represents Vela’s success at the other end of the development spectrum. Ghouth said that Ashary’s appointment serves as an example to all Vela’s cadets and junior officers of what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.
“Vela is committed to ensuring its staff has access to the best training in the world,” added Ghouth, “and it is one of the few companies that have training programs that exceed the international regulatory requirements.”
Ashary assumes his first command with 16 years of experience and a thorough understanding of the responsibilities of command. Since attaining his third officer rank in 1991, he has had a wide range of assignments. He first worked as a junior officer with Jeddah Ports as a pilot and has been with Vela since 1997. Ashary has served in various roles with Vela, including as chief officer for the past five years. As Ashary assumes command, Vela president and CEO Saleh B. Kaki said he is gratified that Ashary will be taking his first command.
“He is an exemplary performer,” said Kaki, “and we have every confidence in his abilities.”
“It is the realization of a life-long ambition to have a ship under my command,” Ashary said.
“I fully understand the trust being placed in me. The most important thing for every captain is to keep his crew and ship safe, and I am committed to that above all else.
“I hope to repay Vela’s trust in me by helping to further develop the young Saudi officers sailing with me so that one day soon, they too, can have a first command and the feeling of satisfaction that comes from an achievement like this.”
