Qatar’s Transport Minister, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, led the nation’s delegation to the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Assembly in London. The Assembly, the highest governing body of the IMO, convened to set the organisation’s strategic direction, elect a new Council, and approve the work programme.
Addressing the assembly, the minister commended the IMO’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global maritime transportation, enhancing safety and security in maritime navigation, and protecting the marine environment. He emphasised Qatar’s strategic focus on its maritime industry, aligning with the IMO’s goals and agenda. The minister highlighted Qatar’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve port efficiency, and develop national legislations in line with international standards for safety at sea, marine environment protection, navigation safety, and seafarers’ rights.
The minister pointed out significant progress in Qatar in training and upskilling national cadets in the maritime industry. He mentioned the recent inauguration of a new Maritime Training and Simulation Centre at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, equipped with cutting-edge technologies to prepare Qatari professionals to the best universal standards.
He stressed that protecting the marine environment is a cornerstone of Qatar’s national policies, viewing seas not just as trade corridors but as natural and human legacies to be preserved for future generations. The minister noted Qatar’s development of a national action plan to preserve marine resources and the establishment of a multidisciplinary committee focused on enhancing long-term planning and management of marine resources, in line with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).
With this commitment, Qatar looks forward to strengthening cooperation with all Member States and the IMO for a safer, eco-friendlier, and more sustainable maritime future. Ambassador of Qatar to the UK, Ireland, and Iceland, HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, and Qatar’s permanent representative to the IMO, attended the session.
On the sidelines, the transport minister met with High Commissioner for Barbados in the United Kingdom Oral Holder and First Deputy Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine Alona Shkrum. During these meetings, discussions focused on Qatar’s cooperation with Barbados and Ukraine in the areas of transportation and ways to enhance them. HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani also attended these meetings.
The IMO, as the UN specialised agency, is responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine and atmospheric pollution by ships. Its work supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This strategic focus on maritime development and environmental protection underscores Qatar’s commitment to advancing its maritime industry while contributing to global efforts for sustainable and safe maritime practices. The minister’s address and the subsequent meetings highlight Qatar’s proactive stance in international maritime affairs, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation within the sector.