The West African nation of Gabon has launched a ship register in the UAE.

It has teamed up with Ajman-based Intershipping Services to set up the International Ship Registry of Gabon.

A deal was signed last September to set up the register.

Gulf Today cited Justin Ndoundangoye, Gabon's transport minister, as saying: “It is no doubt that this opportunity allows Intershipping Services to manage and perform all the functions related to its maritime administration on behalf of the government of Gabon.