By HAN News Desk
LONDON — Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, participated in the opening of the 34th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly today, describing the meeting as a crucial platform where member states reaffirm their commitment to improving global maritime safety, environmental protection and the efficiency of international shipping.
Addressing delegates at the IMO headquarters in London, the minister said the session carries particular importance for Somalia, which is currently undertaking broad reforms aimed at modernising its maritime transport system and reinforcing state authority over its territorial waters. He noted that the government has prioritised upgrading port infrastructure, strengthening maritime taxation systems and enhancing coastal security at a time when the country seeks to integrate more fully with international maritime frameworks after decades of instability.
“We are giving priority to strengthening maritime legislation, modernizing the institutions responsible for sea governance, and reinforcing safety measures to prevent unlawful activities and support legitimate commerce,” Minister Abdulkadir said in his remarks. He added that Somalia is determined to build a rules-based maritime sector capable of protecting the country’s long coastline and regulating the increasingly busy shipping lanes along the Horn of Africa.
The minister highlighted that Somalia is entering what he called a “new phase of maritime responsibility,” underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding national waters, securing vital trade routes and fulfilling its international obligations under maritime law. He noted that Somalia’s re-engagement with the IMO comes at a time
