Liberia Officially Deposits Instrument for Re-Election to IMO Council 2025
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Loading... - Simo Essuma
- 20 Dec 2024
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Liberia has officially initiated its campaign for re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council by depositing the Official Note Verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This declaration was made through the Permanent Mission to the IMO, marking Liberia's bid for a seat during the elections at the 34th Assembly session of the organization, scheduled for December 2025.
On December 16, 2024, Ambassador Robert Wilmot Kpadeh, Liberia's Permanent Representative to the IMO, led a three-member delegation to present the instrument to the Legal Department at the IMO Headquarters in London. The timing of this deposit is significant, as it officially launches Liberia's vigorous campaign to secure re-election to Category A of the IMO's 40-member Council, a position the country attained during the 33rd Assembly session in 2023.
Ambassador Kpadeh underscored the importance of this deposit, emphasizing Liberia's vital role within the IMO as a founding member and a significant contributor to the organization's budget. He highlighted that Liberia takes pride in being a leading flag-state registry and continues to demonstrate leadership in international shipping across various dimensions.
At the IMO, Liberia has been actively involved in key initiatives, notably chairing the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) under the leadership of Dr. Harry Conway, Liberia's Alternate Permanent Representative. The country has also been instrumental in sponsoring or co-sponsoring important proposals aimed at ensuring the safety and security of international shipping. Ambassador Kpadeh expressed confidence that Liberia deserves to retain its seat on the IMO Council, given its contributions and leadership in maritime affairs.
In a related development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official circular urging all foreign missions, line ministries, and agencies of the Government of Liberia to support the country's bid for re-election to the IMO Council. The circular emphasizes that this endeavor is a matter of national obligation and pride, calling for a collective effort to ensure Liberia's continued representation in the IMO.
