ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Kamran Michael has said that Pakistan is committed to the safety and security of the shipping industry and the country fully endorses the efforts made by the International Maritime.
He said this while addressing the 29th regular session of the Organisation (IMO) Assembly, where he was leading Pakistani delegation. The session is being held at the IMO Headquarters in London from November 23 to December 03, said a press release received here.
The minister called for concerted efforts of all the member states to ensure safety and security of mariners at sea. Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency fully participate in the patrolling of assigned areas and would be willing to further play its part in ensuring safety and security, he said.
Emphasizing the importance of international and regional maritime trade for Pakistan, the Minister for Ports and Shipping briefed the delegates on the construction of deep draft port at Karachi. He also outlined the efforts made by Pakistan to effectively control and manage environmental pollution caused by the shipping industry. These included implementation of International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC), and establishment of Maritime Pollution Control Board to monitor the environment.
On this occasion, the minister also offered, on behalf of the people and Government of Pakistan, deepest condolences to the delegates of France and Mali on the recent terror attacks in the countries. He said that Pakistan strongly condemned these acts of violence all around the world.
The minister also commended the meritorious services of the outgoing Secretary General Koji Sekimizu of Japan and congratulated the Secretary General-elect Ki-Tack Lim of South Korea on his new role.
The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating global shipping. It is the highest governing body of the Organization, which meets every two years in a regular session. All 171 member states and three associate members are entitled to attend the Assembly.
The IMO is responsible for approving the work programme, voting the budget and determining the financial arrangements of the Organization. It also elects the Organization’s 40-Member Council.
