From 24 to 27 November 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming Martyna Jagodzinska (Polish Border Guard) and Stefano Liberti (Italian Guardia di Finanza) for an inspiring week as part of the EU Exchange Program “Safety and Environment.”
Our Belgian Coast Guard partners offered them a unique insight into the diverse world of maritime safety, environmental protection, and emergency planning. The program included:
• Monday: Introduction at the Shipping Assistance Division, presentations on Coast Guard operations and the Coast Guard Centre, and visits to the MRCC and the VTS Centre in Zeebrugge.
• Tuesday: Familiarization with sustainable vessels and a visit to the Air Component (40 Squadron SAR) in Koksijde.
• Wednesday: Practical exercises with the JOL simulator and guided tours at the Flanders Maritime Laboratory and the Coastal & Ocean Basin.
• Thursday: Sessions on national response strategies, ecological vulnerability, aerial surveillance, and a visit to the national oil spill response stockpile.
We sincerely thank MDK (Pilotage, Fleet, Shipping Assistance Division), DG Environment, KBIN/BMM, and Defence for their flexibility and commitment in making this week an unforgettable and enriching experience. Special thanks to the Coast Guard secretaries for their flawless organization and visual documentation; EU Exchange Safety and Environment 2025 - YouTube
