Africa-Press – Liberia. The Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority Cllr. Neto Zaza Lighe, says Liberia’s bid for re-election to Category A of the International Maritime Organization Council is not just a campaign, but a reaffirmation of the country’s deep commitment to the principles and mission of the IMO.
“For over 70 years, Liberia has remained a steadfast partner in shaping global maritime policy. From safety to sustainability, from innovation to inclusion — we have championed progress in every tide and every tide of change”, he says, and notes that as technology transforms ship design, construction, propulsion, manning, communication and navigation, Liberia has not just kept pace, but also led.
Speaking at the official launch of the country’s campaign for re-election to IMO Council for 2026-2027 in England, Commissioner Lighe noted that today, the Liberian Shipping Registry is ranked among the largest and most respected in the world, which is not merely a product of innovation, but a force that has driven change, fostered efficiency, and elevated safety across international waters.
“Since becoming a founding member of the IMO in 1949, Liberia has played a pivotal role in the development of maritime laws, policies, and practices that benefit not just flag states — but humanity.”
He continues that as custodians of one of the-largest ship registry in the world, Liberia recognizes that global influence demands global responsibility.
“And so, we come to you with humility and strength, asking for your support and your vote. Re-electing Liberia to Category ‘A’ means reinforcing a voice that has always spoken for safety, sustainability, and shared growth. It means ensuring balanced, inclusive decision-making at the very helm of the IMO.”
The Liberian Maritime Commissioner assures that as the 34th Regular Assembly Session of the IMO is scheduled later this year, Liberia stands ready to honor its reciprocal commitments, saying “We do not take lightly the bonds of trust we have built over the years — and we are committed to walking with you in mutual support, shared goals, and united vision.”
He adds that together, through communication, cooperation, and coordination, the Liberia Maritime Authority can navigate toward a future where maritime development is safe, secure, green, and equitable.
“As we enjoy the serenity of the Thames this evening, let us be reminded of what unites us: one sea, one mission, one destiny. I look forward to engaging with you — state by state, leader by leader — as we build a stronger maritime world together”, Commissioner Lighe stresses and quotes former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, as saying: “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”, while calling for a sail forward with skill, purpose, and unity.
The launch was attended by the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the IMO, Ambassador Robert Wilmot Kpadeh, Liberia’s Ambassador to the Court of St. James, United Kingdom, Genevieve Kennedy, and the Inspector General of Police of the Republic Liberia, Gregory Coleman, among others.
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