Liberia makes strong case for top IMO Seat

A high-level Government of Liberia delegation, led by the Commissioner of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LMA) Lenn Eugene Nagbe, has made a compelling case for ‘’Category A" membership with the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Making Liberia's case at the IMO Headquarters in London on Tuesday, Commissioner Nagbe highlighted the strategic role the country plays in the maritime industry - having the second largest shipping registry in the world and the country's long history of dedicated engagement with the IMO.

He said Liberia remains an outstanding industry leader in keeping with its obligations to the IMO - which are across technical and administrative decision making. This, he said, continues to enhance the direction of global shipping and maritime.

Commissioner Nagbe asserted that the ‘’Category A’’ seat will accord Liberia the standing reflective of its role in the sector, as well as boost its ability to optimise the broader objectives of the IMO.

Speaking earlier, Liberia's Ambassador accredited to London, Madam Gurly T. Gibson Schwarz, stressed Liberia’s "progressive" history with the IMO and its diversified contributions towards the organization's growth and development.

She noted that a ''Category A'' presence on the IMO represents an important goal, which will commensurate with Liberia’s status. She indicated that it will also ensure more strategic contributions from the country.

The Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Kitack LiM, also hailed Liberia for its historic role and important contributions to the IMO and the maritime industry over the years. He commended the country for its many contributions across technical and administrative functionaries.

Meanwhile Liberia has been commended for its timely financial contributions to the IMO. The organization's Chief Scribe said Liberia's aspiration to increase its decision-making stake in the Council deserves consideration.

He said the IMO remains committed to continue advancing the cause of the global body in transforming world shipping and maritime activities while stressing the need for close collaboration among member states and partners.

The Liberian delegation at the presentation ceremony included: Lenn Eugene Nagbe, Commissioner, Liberia Maritime Authority (LMA) ; Cllr. Margaret C. Ansumana, Principal Deputy Commissioner; H.E. Gurly T. Gibson Schwarz, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Liberia accredited to London; Israel Akinsanya, Commissioner for Governmental Affairs, Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA); Harry T. Conway, Alternative Permanent Representative of Liberia to The IMO; Hilary P. Sackie, Chief of Finance, Liberia Maritime Authority; among others.

Source: Embassy of the Republic of Liberia, London, United Kingdom