Her Excellency Madame Genevieve Kennedy, Ambassador of the Republic of Liberia to the Court of St. James, United Kingdom, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Ambassador Robert Wilmot Kpadeh, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the IMO.
Let me also recognize the presence of the Inspector General of Police of the Republic Liberia, Gregory Coleman, Ambassadors, Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
Good evening.
It is both an honor and a great privilege to speak before you on this meaningful occasion — the official launch of Liberia’s campaign for re-election to Category A of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
Let me first extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who made this moment possible. Special thanks to Her Excellency Ambassador Genevieve Kennedy, the Honorable Robert Wilmot Kpadeh and his able team at the Permanent Mission, and to my dedicated colleagues at the Liberia Maritime Authority. Your dedication, excellence, and spirit of collaboration are the wind in our sails.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and gentlemen,
Liberia is once again standing tall — as it has for decades — seeking re-election to a seat among the elite of maritime governance: Category A of the IMO Council. This pursuit is not just a campaign — it is a reaffirmation of Liberia’s deep commitment to the principles and mission of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
For over 70 years, Liberia has remained a steadfast partner in shaping global maritime policy. From safety to sustainability, from innovation to inclusion — we have championed progress in every tide and every tide of change. As technology transforms ship design, construction, propulsion, manning, communication and navigation, Liberia has not just kept pace — we have led.
The Liberian Shipping Registry, today ranked among the largest and most respected in the world, is not merely a product of innovation — it is a force that has driven change, fostered efficiency, and elevated safety across international waters.
Since becoming a founding member of the IMO in 1949, Liberia has played a pivotal role in the development of maritime laws, policies, and practices that benefit not just flag states — but humanity. As custodians of one of the-largest ship registry in the world, we recognize that global influence demands global responsibility. 
And so, we come to you with humility and strength, asking for your support and your vote. Re-electing Liberia to Category A means reinforcing a voice that has always spoken for safety, sustainability, and shared growth. It means ensuring balanced, inclusive decision-making at the very helm of the IMO.
As we sail toward the 34th Regular Assembly Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) later this year, I assure you that Liberia stands ready to honor its reciprocal commitments. We do not take lightly the bonds of trust we have built over the years — and we are committed to walking with you in mutual support, shared goals, and united vision.
Together, through communication, cooperation, and coordination, we can navigate toward a future where maritime development is safe, secure, green, and equitable.
As we enjoy the serenity of the Thames this evening, let us be reminded of what unites us: one sea, one mission, one destiny. I look forward to engaging with you — state by state, leader by leader — as we build a stronger maritime world together.
Let me leave you with the words of President Franklin D. Roosevelt:
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
Let us embrace the challenges — and sail forward with skill, purpose, and unity.
Thank you.
