Liberia's Maritime Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., is leading a high-level Liberian delegation to the 138th Session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The session is being held in London, United Kingdom, from November 2-6, 2026. This five-day event addresses critical issues affecting the global maritime industry.
The 138th IMO Council Session will focus on several key areas, including maritime security, protection of vital international shipping lanes, safety and welfare of seafarers, freedom of navigation, and enhanced cooperation among IMO member states. Commissioner Lighe will present Liberia's positions on these issues, reaffirming the country's commitment to promoting safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient international shipping.
Commissioner Lighe emphasized that protecting international shipping lanes and ensuring the safety and security of seafarers are key national priorities for Liberia. He cited reported unprovoked attacks involving Liberian-flagged vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea. These incidents highlight the need for stronger international action to protect commercial shipping and maritime personnel.
As a leading maritime nation, Liberia holds a Category A seat on the IMO Council and operates the world's largest shipping registry by gross tonnage. This positions the country as a significant player in shaping international maritime policies and advancing global maritime governance. Liberia's participation in the 138th Council session provides an opportunity to advance its maritime interests.
The country's involvement in the session also allows it to contribute to international efforts to strengthen maritime security, protect seafarers, and ensure the uninterrupted flow of global commerce. Commissioner Lighe's leadership of the Liberian delegation demonstrates the country's commitment to these goals and its role in promoting a safe and secure maritime industry.
Liberia's Permanent Mission to the IMO issued a statement highlighting the importance of the session and Liberia's role in it. The statement noted that Commissioner Lighe's participation in the session would help to promote Liberia's maritime interests and contribute to the development of global maritime policies.
The 138th IMO Council Session is a critical event for the global maritime industry, and Liberia's participation is significant. With Commissioner Lighe leading the delegation, Liberia is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of the industry.
Key points
- Liberia's Maritime Commissioner, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., leads a delegation to the 138th IMO Council Session in London.
- The session addresses critical issues affecting the global maritime industry, including maritime security and seafarer safety.
- Liberia holds a Category A seat on the IMO Council and operates the world's largest shipping registry by gross tonnage.
