Antigua and Barbuda strengthened its reputation as a global maritime leader during the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly, delivering a national statement focused on sustainability, security, and international cooperation.
Led by Ambassador Dr. Dwight C.R. Gardiner, OBE, the delegation underscored the country’s commitment to innovation, decarbonisation, and digitalisation in the maritime sector, aligning with the IMO’s 2025 theme: “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.”
Ambassador Gardiner called for global agreement on amendments to MARPOL Annex VI to address greenhouse gas emissions, stressing the need for a just and equitable transition to protect vulnerable small island developing states (SIDS) from sharp increases in transport costs.
He highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strengthened ship registry rules targeting dark and shadow fleets, including automatic deregistration of sanctioned vessels, and welcomed the launch of the Global Centre for Maritime Sanctions Monitoring, established with Malta and the UNODC to help track sanctions compliance and combat maritime crime.
The Ambassador also reaffirmed support for gender equality in the maritime industry, recognizing the work of the Women in Maritime Association Caribbean, including the active Antigua and Barbuda chapter.
Antigua and Barbuda further expressed appreciation to the IMO’s Latin America and Caribbean Section for continued technical assistance and capacity-building efforts.
In a major acknowledgment of his expertise and leadership, Ambassador Gardiner was unanimously elected Chair of Committee 1 of the IMO Assembly—responsible for key legal, administrative, financial, and technical cooperation matters.
The government also extended congratulations to Bahamas and Jamaica on their re-election to the IMO Council.
Hoping this reaffirmed role translates into real benefits for local maritime industries and communities.