RIYADH: Saudi Arabia won membership on the International Maritime Organization Council for the 2026–27 term, receiving 142 votes in the elections held in London.
The IMO, a UN specialized agency, sets international standards for maritime safety, security, pollution reduction, and marine environment protection.
Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Transport General Authority Chairman Saleh Al-Jasser thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support of the transport sector.
He said the Kingdom’s election reflects global confidence in its capabilities and leadership within the IMO, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The authority noted that this achievement results from strong leadership support for maritime transport and the progress under Vision 2030, strengthening the Kingdom’s influence in the global maritime industry.
Saudi Arabia’s advanced maritime sector includes the region’s top-ranking fleet and ports that continue to enhance global competitiveness, the SPA reported.
The National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to boost port efficiency, trade flows, and marine tourism via cruise and coastal services, leveraging the Kingdom’s strategic location along the Red Sea, which handles 13 percent of global trade.
The election highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping international maritime regulations, protecting the marine environment, and improving the safety and security of global maritime transport.
