Jamaica re-elected to the IMO Council; stresses commitment to protecting marine environment

Jamaica has affirmed its commitment to the marine environment and blue economy as it was re-elected to Category C of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The country was re-elected to serve another two-year term until 2023 during the 32nd session of the IMO Assembly, held virtually on December 10. The council approves the work of the various committees, proposes the budget, appoints the secretary general for the assembly’s approval and makes policy recommendations, including the IMO’s strategic plan.

Minister of Transport and Mining Robert Montague, in a pretaped statement for the December 7 opening, said “Jamaica remains mindful of the vulnerabilities of our location, but also our responsibilities to join with the international maritime community to preserve and protect the marine environment and the blue economy. With the impacts of climate change, Jamaica remains ready to assist our Caribbean partners. We continue to show leadership in the region in partnering with the IMO to find viable solutions to reduce emissions.”

Montague continued, “Jamaica’s long-term objectives fully recognise shipping as a major plank of our own Vision 2030 Development Plan. The maritime sector is a major contributor to the growth of Jamaica’s economy, enabled by substantial investments in world-class cruise and trans-shipment port facilities; global distribution through the logistics hub; and a dynamic university which continues to develop social capital to serve the region and beyond. Jamaica’s maritime administration continues to execute its mandate, with a focus on safety and security; the prevention of marine pollution; and the recognition, in law, of our valued seafarers as essential workers.”

He also pledged to continue to support the IMO in all aspects of its work, including efforts to reduce and eliminate ships’ GHG emissions and address climate change.