By Chuckey Radamel Thomas
LONDON, United Kingdom — Liberia has reinforced its standing in the international maritime industry after fulfilling its annual financial obligation to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with a payment totaling £5,946,633.
The contribution was officially presented in London by Liberia’s Maritime Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., to IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez during an official engagement.
Commissioner Lighe described the payment as evidence of Liberia’s continued commitment to international maritime cooperation and the work of the IMO, particularly in promoting safer shipping operations, maritime security, operational efficiency and environmental protection.
As the operator of the world’s largest ship registry, Liberia remains a major financial stakeholder in the IMO, accounting for approximately 15 percent of the organization’s annual operating budget.
He further emphasized that Liberia would remain committed to meeting its international financial responsibilities while contributing to policies and initiatives aimed at advancing the global maritime sector.
For his part, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez welcomed Liberia’s contribution, commending the government for consistently supporting the organization through its financial commitments.
Dominguez also recognized Liberia’s involvement in the IMO’s technical working groups, committees and Council proceedings, describing the country’s participation as meaningful and productive.
Liberia currently occupies a Category A seat on the IMO Council, giving the country an influential position in discussions and decisions concerning international maritime policies and regulations.
Commissioner Lighe was accompanied at the presentation by Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the IMO, Ambassador Robert Wilmot Kpadeh; Alternate Permanent Representative, Dr. Harry Conway; and other officials of Liberia’s Permanent Mission in London.
The payment underscores Liberia’s continued engagement in international maritime affairs and its contribution to strengthening cooperation, improving shipping standards and supporting the sustainable development of the global maritime industry.
