The objective of REMPEC is to contribute to preventing and reducing pollution from ships and combating pollution in case of emergency. The mission of REMPEC is to assist the Contracting Parties in meeting their obligations under Articles 4(1), 6 and 9 of the Barcelona Convention; the 1976 Emergency Protocol; the 2002 Prevention and Emergency Protocol and implementing the Regional Strategy for Prevention of and Response to Marine Pollution from Ships, which key objectives and targets are reflected in the Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development. The Centre will also assist the Contracting Parties which so request in mobilizing assistance in case of an emergency under the Offshore Protocol. REMPEC’s main fields of action consist of: -Strengthening the capacities of the coastal States in the region with a view to preventing pollution of the marine environment from ships and ensuring the implementation in the region of the rules, and with a view to eliminating pollution of the marine environment from shipping activities; -Developing regional cooperation in the field of the prevention of pollution of the marine environment from ships, and facilitating cooperation among Med coastal States in order to respond to pollution incidents; -Assisting coastal States of the Med region which so request in the development of their own national capabilities for response to pollution incidents which result or may result in a discharge of oil or other hazardous substances and facilitating the exchange of technological cooperation and training; -Providing a framework for the exchange of information on technical, scientific, legal and financial matters, and promoting dialogue aimed at conducting coordinated action at all levels; -Assisting coastal States of the region, which in cases of emergency so request, either directly or by obtaining assistance from the other Parties, or when possibilities for assistance do not exist within the region, in obtaining international assistance.