Abu Dhabi: The UAE has now become the first Arab nation to win Category B membership of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council. The win was the triumphant result of an election that included nominees from 11 leading countries in the international marine trade sector, such as Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, France and Australia, said a press release issued late on Friday by the Federal Transport Authority ( FTA)- Land and Maritime.
The declaration was made during the 30th General Assembly meeting, amid international praise for the UAE’s competitive advantages that has enabled the country to play a pivotal role in promoting the international maritime system and driving the growth of international maritime trade.
Dr Abdullah Bin Mohammad Balheif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the FTA , congratulated the UAE’s rulers, noting that this historical victory marks an important milestone in the UAE's path towards leadership, growth and development.
Al Nuaimi said winning membership of the IMO ‘s Council is an addition to the UAE's record of several achievements and paves the way for a new stage of global leadership by enhancing UAE’s contribution to the development of international laws and regulations that will promote international trade, transport and international shipping.
Al Nuaimi attributed the win to the advanced capabilities and competitive advantages of the UAE.
Moreover, he thanked all the countries for supporting the UAE’s nomination. He praised the serious efforts of the supporting team, which highlighted the cooperative efforts between the public and private sectors to raise UAE’s position globally. He also thanked the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ports and local maritime authorities and the team for their tireless efforts and their valuable contributions that had the greatest impact on this historic win.
Al Nuaimi concluded: “The UAE's achievements do not stop here as we are pushing to continue the country’s competitive role in global trade and international economy, especially in our continuing efforts to expand the development of local ports with a total investment of Dh 157 billion over the coming years.”
