India Re-Elected to IMO Council 2024-25, Strengthening Global Maritime Influence

India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the biennium 2024-25, receiving the highest number of votes among the 10 states with significant interest in international seaborne trade. This reaffirms India’s commitment to enhancing its contributions to international maritime operations, as stated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The council, as the executive organ of IMO, is tasked with overseeing the organization’s work under the assembly’s authority.

During intervals between assembly sessions, the council assumes the assembly’s functions, excluding the ability to make recommendations to governments on maritime safety and pollution prevention. India’s long-term goal, under the MIV 2030 initiative, is to increase its representation at IMO by appointing permanent representatives in London. This move aims to further strengthen India’s presence and influence in international maritime affairs.

The Indian delegation, led by Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways T K Ramachandaran, included representatives from DG Shipping, the High Commission of India in London, and industry stakeholders. The re-election of India to the IMO Council underscores the country’s commitment to promoting global maritime cooperation and advancing its interests in the international maritime community.

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