Athens, Greece – The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe sr. has continued to advance Liberia’s maritime interests on the global stage through a series of high-level engagements at Posidonia 2026, the world’s leading international shipping and maritime exhibition currently underway in Athens, Greece.
Posidonia, held every two years, serves as a premier meeting place for shipowners, ship managers, shipbuilders, maritime service providers, equipment manufacturers, and industry leaders from around the world, providing a unique platform for dialogue, partnership, and innovation within the maritime sector.
As part of Liberia’s participation, Commissioner/CEO Lighe held fruitful discussions with a delegation from the Shipping Council, led by its President, Adamantios Lemos, and Secretary General Kierstin Del Valle Lachtman. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between the global shipping industry and Liberia’s maritime sector, particularly in the area of seafarer development and employment opportunities.
During the meeting, the Liberian Ship Owner Council delegation expressed strong interest in the deployment of additional Liberian seafarers aboard international vessels and encouraged Liberia to continue expanding its pool of qualified maritime professionals.
In response, LIMA Commissioner/CEO assured the delegation that Liberia remains committed to increasing the number of trained and certified seafarers available to the global shipping industry. He emphasized that additional Liberian seafarers will be deployed upon their successful graduation from the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI), which continues to play a critical role in preparing young Liberians for careers in the maritime sector.
“The Government of Liberia, through the Liberia Maritime Authority, is investing in the future of our maritime workforce. We are committed to producing highly qualified seafarers who can compete and excel in the global shipping industry,” the Commissioner/CEO stated.
In a separate engagement, renowned international shipping executive and Founder/CEO of Laskaridis Shipping Company Ltd. and Lavinia Corporation, Panos Laskaridis, commended Liberia for the efficiency and professionalism of its maritime registry services. He encouraged the Liberia Maritime Authority to continue expanding the number of vessels registered under the Liberian flag, noting that Liberia’s reputation for quality service and regulatory excellence has earned widespread respect throughout the maritime industry.
Mr. Laskaridis highlighted Liberia’s growing influence within the international maritime community and expressed confidence in the continued growth of the Liberian Registry.
The meetings underscore Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its position as one of the world’s leading maritime registries while creating opportunities for employment, capacity building, and economic growth through strategic international partnerships.
The Liberia Maritime Authority’s participation at Posidonia 2026 reflects its ongoing efforts to promote Liberia’s maritime interests, enhance global partnerships, and ensure that the country remains a key player in the international shipping industry.
