- Dominguez Mourns Maritime Tragedies, Urges Global Cooperation.
- IMO Condemns Attacks on Shipping, Cites Red Sea and Black Sea Incidents.
- Secretary-General Highlights Seafarer Safety Amid Rising Security Risks.
Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), kicked off the 134th session of the IMO Council on July 7 at the IMO Headquarters in London. He started by expressing his heartfelt condolences for the recent maritime tragedies and emphasised the need for global cooperation and institutional reform, reports Safety4Sea.
Condolences for Recent Maritime Disasters
In his opening remarks, Dominguez took a moment to recognise two tragic maritime incidents that took place in early July. On July 1, the Admarine 12 was involved in a serious accident while being towed in Egypt’s territorial waters in the Red Sea. Sadly, four lives have been confirmed lost, and search efforts are still underway for three individuals who remain missing. “I wish to express my profound sadness and sincere condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected,” said the Secretary-General.
He also referenced the July 2 sinking of the Tunu Pratama Jaya, a ferry off Bali, Indonesia, which was carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew. Four people are confirmed dead, while approximately 30 remain unaccounted for. “The Organisation will continue to monitor developments closely and stands ready to support efforts to draw any lessons that may help prevent such incidents in the future,” Dominguez commented.
Condemnation of Attacks on Shipping
In a recent discussion about maritime security, Dominguez expressed his strong disapproval of the attacks on maritime personnel. He pointed out a troubling incident in the Black Sea, along with an attack on July 6 against a ship near Hodeidah, Yemen. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries in that case, but he made it clear that he stands firmly against such violent actions.
“There is no justification for any attacks against international shipping regardless of motivation or cause,” Dominguez stressed. He urged all parties involved in regional tensions to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation, reiterating that the safety of seafarers must remain paramount.
Solidarity with Victims of Natural Disasters
Dominguez reached out to the people of central Texas, who faced devastating flash floods over the weekend. Tragically, the floods claimed several lives, including those of children, and many individuals are still unaccounted for.
Support for Council Leadership and Institutional Strength
Wrapping up his comments, the Secretary-General conveyed his unwavering trust in the leadership of the IMO Council. He commended Chair Victor Jimenez Fernandez from Spain and Vice-Chair Amane Fethallah from Morocco, while also reaffirming the ongoing support from the IMO Secretariat.
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Source: Safety4Sea
