KINGSTON, Jamaica, Nov. 8, CMC – Jamaica is seeking another term on the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), pledging to continue advocating for developing countries and strengthening global maritime safety, security and environmental protection.
The country formally launched its candidature for the 2028–2029 biennium during a recent reception at the IMO headquarters in London, coinciding with its 50th anniversary of membership in the organisation.
Chair of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, Corah-Ann Robertson Sylvester, appealed for the continued support of member states, citing Jamaica’s longstanding commitment to international maritime standards and cooperation.
“As we launch this candidature, our message is simple: we are ready to continue serving, ready to contribute and ready to work with you. We, therefore, respectfully ask for your support for re-election,” she said.
Robertson Sylvester said Jamaica’s continued presence on the Council would help ensure that the interests of Caribbean countries, Small Island Developing States and other developing nations are represented in international maritime decision-making.
She highlighted Jamaica’s growing maritime sector, including its container transshipment facilities, four modern cruise terminals, floating drydock and expanding bunkering industry.
Jamaica was also the first Caribbean country to facilitate liquefied natural gas bunkering and continues to participate in international initiatives aimed at reducing marine pollution and promoting cleaner shipping.
The Maritime Authority chair also pointed to the Caribbean Maritime University’s role in training seafarers and the country’s ratification of major IMO conventions governing maritime operations and environmental protection.
Jamaica’s re-election campaign follows a visit by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez to Kingston in July, during which the country showcased developments in its maritime sector and reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation.
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