Bahrain's Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (Asry) said it has signed a major agreement with ABB Industries, Dubai, clearing the way for a dedicated service point workshop at the yard's facilities in the kingdom.

ABB Industries is a division of ABB Turbocharging, a global leader in the manufacture and maintenance of turbochargers for two-stroke and four-stroke engines for various types of vessels.

Under the agreement, ABB will also provide international factory warranties from its setup at Asry, and provide onsite accessibility for Asry customers to ABB's worldwide service network, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

The agreement was signed by Asry chief executive Nils Kristian Berge, technical resources and business development general manager Magdy Mustafa and ABB local business unit manager and area manager for Mena region John Fyfe, regional business development manager Shibu Rajamani and head of operations and country insurance risk manager Nandagopal K.

Berge said it is a "landmark agreement by which Asry can expand its provision of quality services to its wide range of global customers."

"The agreement will promote sharing of mutual benefits to enhance business of both companies, ensure quick turbocharger service to customers in the yard, and offer one-stop ABB turbocharger solutions at Asry," he added.

"Asry will also benefit from the worldwide accessibility, rapid response and cutting-edge expertise of ABB's service network, which comprises more than a 100 service stations in over 50 countries," stated Fyfe.

"Given the strategic importance of Asry to our mutual customers, this initiative provides onsite accessibility to key equipment required for the overhaul of turbochargers, thus allowing for quick turnaround times and onsite technical support round the clock," he added.

The workshop will be established next month, positively contributing to the national income of the kingdom and providing training and job opportunities to Bahrainis on new types of specialised activities and skills.-TradeArabia News Service