Opening
the 108th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108), which meets in
London from 15 to 24 May 2024 to discuss maritime security and safety issues,
he stated:
“The
safety and well-being of seafarers remain of utmost importance, especially
considering the ongoing challenges highlighted by recent distressing events in
the Red Sea and off the coast of Somalia.
“Seafarers affected by these
incidents must not be forgotten and it is incumbent upon us to pursue every
available avenue to secure their safe return to their loved ones and their
livelihoods.”
He
reiterated his call for the immediate release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew,
who remain hijacked since November 2023.
The
Committee, which deals with all matters related to maritime safety and maritime
security under the scope of IMO, will discuss possible actions to address the
critical situation facing shipping in the Red Sea. The issue continues to impact the global economy and freedom of
navigation, while endangering the marine environment. It has already cost the
lives of innocent seafarers.
The
Committee will also discuss growing cases of piracy and armed robbery against
ships, which have increased by approximately 15% between 2022 (131 incidents)
and 2023 (150 incidents).
“I am
deeply concerned over the first increase in the number of incidents for several
years, and worry that growing global instability is a contributory factor… I
urge this Committee and all stakeholders to take every action possible to
address this alarming trend,” Mr. Dominguez stated.
He
commended regional and international efforts to implement the Djibouti and
Yaoundé Codes of Conduct. These regional initiatives bring together countries
in the region to cooperate on joint actions to address maritime security
issues, particularly piracy and armed robbery. These include capacity-building
initiatives for national authorities, coordinating activities, sharing
experiences and expertise and developing relevant regional strategies.
Other
key issues on the agenda for MSC 108 include developing a code to regulate
Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), developing a safety regulatory
framework to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships using new
technologies and alternative fuels, and addressing violence and harassment in
the maritime sector.
The meeting will conclude on 24 May
2024.