The 30th Regular Session of the Assembly of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) commenced on Monday, 27 November 2017 at the IMO Headquarters in London in the United Kingdom.
The South African government participated in the proceedings of the Assembly, with the delegation comprised of the Deputy Minister of Transport (Republic of South Africa), supported by the officials from the Departments of Transport (DoT) and International Relations and Corporation (DIRCO), the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and Transnet.
The gathering on Monday, commenced by electing the Officers of the Assembly, notably the President, the First and the Second Vice Presidents. Furthermore, the meeting elected the Chair of the First and Second Committees of the Assembly.
Deputy Minister, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga would like to congratulate Chile on her appointment as the newly elected President of the IMO, as well as Cyprus and Georgia on their election to the positions of First and Second Vice Presidents.
Delivering her general statement on the second day of the proceedings of the IMO 30th Regular Session on Tuesday, 28 November 2017, Deputy Minister Chikunga commended the Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr Kitack Lim for his indelible contribution and leadership that he has demonstrated in advancing the objectives of the IMO.
Ms Chikunga also highlighted the importance of shipping as it continues to play a critical and prominent role in connecting people from different corners of the world through global trade.
This phenomenon places the IMO at the epicentre to ensure that such global activities are accomplished seamlessly and without unnecessary hindrances, said Deputy Minister Chikunga.
The Deputy Minister also commended the IMO for its valuable contribution towards the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) especially on climate change and gender equality.
The Deputy Minister assured the delegates of the Assembly that South Africa will continue to play her meaningful role in addressing the maritime related challenges facing the global community. We will continue to put together our collaborative efforts and work with all relevant stakeholders in contributing towards the sustainable green economy, said Ms Chikunga.
The Deputy Minister and her delegation currently participating at the 30th Regular Session of the IMO Assembly has worked tirelessly to make sure that they’ve put in all efforts to gather support from member states in anticipation of being re-elected into the Category C of the Council.
South Africa will continue to play an active and supportive role in the affairs of the IMO, and wishes to retain her seat in the IMO Council, said the Deputy Minister Chikunga.
Source: Government of South Africa