The UAE has become the first Arab country to win Category B membership into the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, thanks to its advanced capabilities and competitive advantages.
The win was the triumphant result of an election that included nominees from 11 leading countries in the international marine trade sector such as Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, France, and Australia.
The declaration was made during the 30th General Assembly meeting, amid international praise for the UAEs competitive advantages that has enabled the country to play a crucial role in promoting the global maritime system and driving the growth of international trade.
Lauding the UAE leadership, Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development and chairman of the board of directors of the Federal Authority (FTA), said this historical victory translates an important milestone in the UAE’s path towards global leadership, growth and development.
Al Nuaimi pointed out that winning membership into the IMO’s council was an addition to the UAE’s record of cultural achievements and paves way for a new stage of global leadership by enhancing the country’s contribution to the development of international laws and regulations that will promote international trade, transport, and international shipping. The minister attributed the win to the advanced capabilities and competitive advantages of the UAE.
He concluded: “The UAE’s achievements do not stop here as we are pushing to continue the countrys competitive role in global trade and international economy, as part of our efforts to expand the development of local ports with a total investment of AED157bn ($42.7bn) over the coming years.”