Minister highlights importance of maritime partnerships

13 December 2017, 12:00AM

The  Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, has acknowledged the work of the International Maritime Organisation (I.M.O.) in developing the Pacific Maritime Industry through Secretariat of the Pacific Community (S.P.C).

The Minister made the point in London when he addressed the 30th I.M.O. General Assembly held last week.

Papali’i, who led Samoa’s delegation, reaffirmed the support and commitment from government of Samoa with its obligations in the implementation of I.M.O. treaty Instrument and Programsme. 

He thanked other members states which continue to assist Samoa in various maritime fronts, such as Japan, China, New Zealand, Australia and Singapore, to name a few. 

These member states had been assisting Samoa in the improvements of its shipping facilities, maritime infrastructure, safety and security equipment and systems, and personnel capacity development. 

The Minister reemphasized the importance of Maritime Transport in trading as a Small Island Developing State (S.I.D.S.) like Samoa.

He said shipping is not only the Engine for Growth, but the Enabler and catalyst for the Development of remote and Isolated Islands.

“Our small and vulnerable economies are very much dependent on transportation related revenues. Hence, consistency and reliability maritime transport to ensure development together with safe, secure sea transport assumes a significant and crucial role in our country’s economic development. 

The Minister went on to highlight that the Pacific Island Forum (P.I.Fs) has called for better management of our Oceans. 

“It is vital to our Pacific region, as it is our Identity, our life and our way of living. Sharing the theme of the Pacific Island Forum “The Blue Pacific, Our sea of islands: Our security through sustainable development, management and conservation”. 

Therefore he calls for the actions from I.M.O. and member states, for better management of oceans. 

Reference was also made to the 2030 (S.D.G.) Agenda, as it’s a framework for the world towards a sustainable and resilient future, for our people, our planet and our prosperity. 

The Minister called for meaningful actions on climate change as Sea Transport contributes to G.H.G. gases, but more importantly the pollution from ships to the marine environment.

13 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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