IMPA Colloquium 2023
IMPA Colloquium
October 2023
"The IMO's Mission and Key Objectives, and the Role of Stakeholders in Contributing to the Achievement of IMO's Goals"
Opening remarks
Captain Pelletier, distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen,
I am deeply honoured to address you today at this Colloquium, focusing on IMO's Goals for Safe and Environmentally Responsible Shipping and the Role of Local Marine Stakeholders in Achieving Those Goals.
My heartfelt gratitude goes to IMPA and, in particular, its President, Captain Pelletier, for organizing this event. IMPA's tireless efforts to strengthen cooperation between our organizations through events, workshops, and meetings like this one are truly commendable.
In a world where global economy relies on shipping, we must acknowledge the critical role of maritime personnel, particularly pilots.
Pilots have always ensured the safety of navigation in challenging waters, guiding vessels through hazardous areas, and facilitating effective communication.
The safety of navigation and environmental protection are collective responsibilities. As a specialized agency of the United Nations, IMO is the global standard setting authority for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping.
This global regulatory framework for shipping is developed and adopted by IMO Member States.
But IMO recognizes the very important role that NGOs, such as IMPA, play in its work. Your expertise is indispensable, enriching our regulatory framework.
Only through extensive collaboration with all maritime stakeholders, we collectively drive the industry's development and innovation, with the aim of achieving sustainable growth in the international maritime sector.
It is in this spirit that I extend my heartfelt gratitude to IMPA for their pivotal contributions to IMO's work over the past five decades, as a non-governmental organization with consultative status since 1973, now marking an impressive 50 years of collaboration.
Few areas of shipping are as reliant on the human element as pilotage, and I am pleased to say that IMO has identified areas where IMO resolutions encourage the use of pilots on board ships and recently adopted a new strategic direction to recognize the importance of the human element lending further significance to the people involved in the shipping industry.
IMO has therefore developed recommendations on training qualifications and operational procedures for pilots as well as requirements to make it easier for them to board ships.
In light of this, I extend my appreciation to IMPA for propelling the review of SOLAS regulation V/23 on pilot transfer arrangements. I am confident that the anticipated SOLAS amendments and the related resolution will significantly enhance safety standards through clear, mandatory requirements.
IMPA's unwavering contributions to this process are both welcomed and indispensable.
As we look into the future of shipping, we must ensure that our regulatory framework evolves in tandem with technological advancements.
This includes addressing digitalization, automation, e-navigation, and cybersecurity. IMO has embarked on developing a Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code to establish a robust safety regime for autonomous ships that ensures safety of life at sea, as well as safety of cargo on board and of the MASS itself.
In this pursuit, I have no doubt that IMO and IMPA share a common vision and commitment. I trust that IMPA will continue to contribute significantly to our vital work.
Another paramount policy concern is our unwavering commitment to combat climate change. IMO's leadership in shipping decarbonization is paramount.
Over the past decade, we have made substantial progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping.
A momentous achievement in this journey is the recent adoption of the 2023 Strategy on the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships in July. This Strategy sets an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or around, i.e., close to 2050, marking a pivotal moment in maritime decarbonization.
However, this is merely the beginning. To realize the net-zero goal, we must implement comprehensive measures as per the agreed schedule.
Our ambitious strategy aims to stimulate technology development, innovation, and research into low- and zero-carbon fuels. We are already witnessing a surge in worldwide R&D initiatives focused on these alternative fuels, accompanied by technological innovations, including projects involving hydrogen and ammonia-powered vessels.
As we navigate the digital and energy transition, we must not forget the future maritime workforce and their wellbeing, including pilots. They are the individuals who will operate new technologies, exercising their skills, experience, and judgment in critical situations.
IMO is committed to fostering education, training, and skills development for this evolving workforce.
Closing remarks
Ladies and gentlemen,
The maritime sector faces multifaceted challenges, from decarbonization to the integration of automation and digitalization. These issues will define and shape IMO's. As the very nature of shipping undergoes transformation, it is imperative that all stakeholders in the maritime sector contribute their expertise to realize the future we aspire to.
As we embark on these new ambitions and goals, we must strengthen our collaborations, embrace diversity, dismantle barriers, and ensure that no one is left behind.
I eagerly anticipate the discussions ahead, focusing on the pivotal role of maritime stakeholders in accomplishing IMO's ambitious goals.
It is only through collective effort and unwavering commitment that we can navigate the obstacles and challenges that lie ahead, steering maritime toward a future characterized by efficiency, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
Thank you.