Liberia Launches Bid for Category-A Membership Re-election to IMO Council
Liberia has formally declared its bid for re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, submitting its official instrument at the IMO Headquarters in London. Ambassador Robert Wilmont Kpadeh, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization – IMO, led a three-member delegation to present the Official Note Verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Liberia to the Legal Department at the IMO Headquarters in London.
This submission signals the official start of Liberia’s campaign to get re-elected to Category-A of the IMO 40-member Council during the elections at the 34th Assembly session in December 2025. Liberia, a founding member of the IMO, is seeking to build on its successful election to the council in 2023.
Speaking at the deposit ceremony, Ambassador Kpadeh underscored Liberia’s critical contributions to global shipping and its leadership within the IMO. “Liberia is not only the leading and most enviable ship registry but also an active participant in international shipping governance,” he said, highlighting the country’s role as Chair of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) under Dr. Harry Conway.
Ambassador Kpadeh emphasized Liberia’s commitment to international shipping safety and environmental sustainability, pointing to its sponsorship of key proposals within the IMO. He described the re-election bid as a reflection of Liberia’s key role in advancing global maritime development.
In support of the campaign, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Liberia has issued a circular urging all diplomatic missions, government ministries, and agencies to rally behind the country’s bid, describing it as a matter of national pride and obligation.
The IMO Council elections will play a crucial role in shaping the organization’s policy direction as it addresses critical issues in global maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.
Source : LiMA
