The State of Israel is honored to submit its candidature to the Council of the
International Maritime Organization to be held during the coming elections of the 28th Session of the Assembly to be held in London in November 2013.
The IMO is the UN specialized agency responsible for the safety of life at sea, maritime security and the protection of the marine environment through prevention of sea pollution caused by ships. It facilitates cooperation among govenrments to achieve the highest practicable standards of maritime safety and security. The IMO convenes international conferences on shipping matters and to draft international conventions or agreements.
The IMO Assembly, consisting of all Member States, usually convenes every two years when the 40-member Council is elected.
Israel became one of the first members of the IMO, joining the Organization in 1952, shortly atier it was mandated, but has never served as a Council member.
From a Humble Beginning to a Promising Future
Israel is a small coastal state, which relies heavily
on sea trade. In fact, approximately 98% of all goods exported from and
imported to Israel travel by sea. Despite being a young state, Israel
has a well-developed maritime industry.
From a humble beginning, 65 years ago, when a few ships carrying Jewish immigrants to the newly established State of Israel, utilized a few small ports built by the British, Israel has been transformed into a maritime nation.
Israel has a strong and vibrant economy, which excels in development of innovative technologies. Notwithstanding, it atiributes paramount importance to maritime transport.
At present, Israel is in the process of major development of its sea ports to enable servicing the newest generations of large container ships. A new offshore industry is concurrently developing as a result of recent discoveries of significant gas fields.
To date, some seventy million tons are handled annually through Israel’s ports: Two major ports in the Mediterranean, one in the Gulf of Aqaba/Eilat and two energy ports. Many of the leading global carriers regularly call at Israeli ports and many world-class companies have representatives in Israel, which are supported by numerous local agents.
The short but turbulent history of the State of Israel against seemingly impossible odds, have created a resilient nation with innovative approach to problem-solving and constantly improving “know-how” and professionalism.
Safety First – Professionalism and High Standards of Maritime Safety
Israel operates a modern Rescue Coordination Center on a 24/7 basis, which was created to assist all vessels in distress and cases of pollution of the marine environment, in accordance with the spirit of the maritime community and IMO Conventions.
Israel strongly supports a lawful, free, safe and environmentally friendly maritime trade. As a member of the IMO, Israel acts in the spirit of UNCLOS and promotes ratifying additional treaties and conventions. Israel is the first Mediterranean country to volunteer for the VIMSAS.
Israel has a fleet of 50 registered vessels with an average age of ten years, which totals 3.2MT. All are subjected to rigorous standards through the supervision of the Administration of Shipping and Ports. The
Israeli Port State Control (member of the Med-MOU) has earned a reputation for professionalism, fairness and objectivity, among all ship-owners whose vessels call at Israeli ports.
Israel strives to become a flag-bearer which represents the most advanced values of free maritime trade, fully commitied to the standards of International Conventions of the Safety of Life at Sea and the Protection of the Marine Environment. Membership on the IMO Council would offer Israel the opportunity to contribute its best to the international maritime community.