The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Mr. Koji Sekimizu attended a reception and a Hanukah candle lighting ceremony yesterday evening. The Event was hosted by HE Ambassador Daniel Taub, who in addition to being Israel’s Ambassador to the UK is accredited to the maritime body. This first-time event takes place on the occasion of the 28th General Assembly of the IMO, and Israel’s first-time candidacy the IMO Council.
HE Ambassador Daniel Taub remarked:
“Israel has the potential to make an extraordinary contribution to the IMO in terms of his own advances in maritime safety, its innovative technologies for recycling and preventing pollution, and its proven commitment to combatting maritime terrorism and security threats. The Hanukah menorah which we place in the window has for two thousand years been the Jewish “lighthouse” and we are delighted that Secretary General Sekimizu is lighting it with us tonight.”
Mr. Koji Sekimizu said: “The very significant event of Chanukah reminds us of light and fire. Fire is symbolised in carrying the torch, which is what we are doing. We should carry the torch for the younger generation. We should carry fire from one to another, as we do in this ceremony. For the IMO assembly, this is a time to review the past two years and look to the future. I wish Israel all the best in aiming for council membership”.
Membership of the organization would offer the State of Israel the opportunity to share its expertise with the maritime community, utilizing Israel’s experience and knowledge on advanced technologies and research systems in the fields relevant to the IMO’s work. These capabilities include sophisticated systems in preventing marine pollution from ships and reception facilities around the world, as well as unique programs aimed at preserving ocean life. In joining the IMO, Israel would strengthen its involvement on issues on the organization’s agenda, such as safety, trading, environment, marine pollution and the training of seafarers.
The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations with 170 Member States and three Associate Members. Its primary purpose is to develop and maintain a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping and its remit today includes safety, environmental concerns, legal matters, technical co-operation, maritime security and the efficiency of shipping. IMO is governed by an Assembly of members and is financially administered by a Council of members elected from the Assembly.