Malta secured its re-election to Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, coming in second place, a significant achievement among the 176 participating member nations.
This accomplishment marks the most impressive result in Malta’s history with the IMO.
The election took place during the 33rd session of the IMO General Assembly in London, where the Maltese delegation led by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Aaron Farrugia campaigned for Malta’s re-election by promoting the country as a national focal point for maritime affairs, both to facilitate sustainable investment and to promote the sector internationally with the ultimate goal to make Malta a maritime centre of excellence.
Minister Farrugia stated that the result is yet another major achievement for Maritime Malta and a recognition of its work as a leader in the international maritime domain.
During his address to the Assembly, Minister Farrugia said that Malta’s re-election to the IMO Council is very prestigious for our country and confirms that Malta – which is the 6th largest merchant shipping registry in the world—enjoys the trust of the international community in this sector.
“We are motivated by the prospect of a brighter future and remain committed to overcoming current challenges. The Government of Malta stands resolute in its support to the new Presidency and its vision,” he said, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed towards this election.
On the topic of decarbonisation of the industry, Minister Farrugia reiterated Malta’s call for a global level playing field. He said that bold global action is needed to decarbonise shipping and ensure a just transition and called for swift action and system-wide collaboration amid growing carbon emissions and the risk of carbon leakage.
The Maltese delegation included Permanent Secretary Godwin Mifsud, Permanent Representative of Malta to the IMO Ivan Sammut, and Transport Malta Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Borg.
Malta also offered a financial contribution to the organisation’s fund for the provision of technical training for developing countries with the aim to improve their maritime capabilities.
A specialised agency of the United Nations, the IMO is responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships. A member of the Organisation since 1966, Malta is a strong supporter of the aims and objectives of the organisation and is a firm believer that real enhancement of safety, security and pollution prevention standards at sea and in port can only be achieved through universal implementation of IMO rules and regulations. In Category C, States have special interests in maritime transport or navigation. Their election to the Council ensures the representation of all major geographic areas of the world. Throughout this election, Malta was elected on the Council for the 14th consecutive time.
Photo: MTIP
