Morocco’s Maritime Diplomacy Shines in London Summit

On Nov 27, 2023

A prestigious Moroccan delegation, led by Mohamed Abdeljalil from the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, is currently representing the country at the 33rd session of the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations specialized agency dedicated to maritime safety, security, and pollution prevention.

The assembly, held every two years, is a significant event where Morocco aims to advocate for its candidacy to the IMO Council for the term 2024-2025. This endeavor is part of Morocco’s commitment to contributing actively to the IMO’s mission, having been a member since 1962.

Given Morocco’s strategic maritime position along the Mediterranean and Atlantic, boasting a coastline of over 3,500 kilometers, the country plays a crucial role in the IMO’s global representation. The current session is particularly pivotal for Morocco as it seeks re-election to the IMO Council, alongside nations such as Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Egypt, and Qatar.

The IMO Council, responsible for ensuring diverse global representation, holds a vital role in the organization’s core missions, including addressing specific interests in maritime transport, ensuring worldwide geographical representation, and approving measures for new organizational observers.

The ongoing assembly is poised to make important decisions, including the adoption of the Organization’s Strategic Plan for 2024-2029 and the approval of the budget and work program for 2024-2025. Additionally, the assembly will decide on the appointment of Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco from the Republic of Panama as the IMO Secretary-General, succeeding South Korean Kitack Lim.

This diplomatic effort follows King Muhammad VI’s recent emphasis on the Atlantic dimension of the country during his address on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the Green March. As Morocco engages in bilateral meetings and strategic discussions at the IMO assembly, the outcomes will shape the nation’s maritime trajectory on the global stage.