Libya and IMO Discuss Maritime Cooperation, Safety Standards and Sector Development
Shipping Arabia, November 10, 2026 – Libya is seeking closer cooperation with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to strengthen its maritime transport sector, improve regulatory alignment and enhance maritime safety and environmental protection. The initiative was discussed during a meeting between senior Libyan maritime officials and IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez in London.
Mohamed Salem Al-Siwi, Chairman of the Libyan Ports and Maritime Transport Authority, met Dominguez on November 5 on the sidelines of the 138th session of the IMO Council. The meeting focused on strengthening institutional cooperation and exploring opportunities to support the development of Libya’s maritime sector.
The discussions also addressed Libya’s efforts to increase its engagement with international maritime institutions and benefit from the IMO’s technical expertise and programs.
Libya Outlines Maritime Sector Development Priorities
During the meeting, Al-Siwi reviewed the initiatives undertaken by Libya’s Ministry of Transportation through the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority to modernize the national maritime transport sector.
These efforts focus on strengthening institutional and technical capabilities, developing maritime human resources and improving the regulatory framework governing maritime activities.
A central priority is maritime workforce training and capacity building. Libyan authorities are working to improve the qualifications and technical capabilities of personnel involved in the sector, alongside broader efforts to develop the country’s maritime institutions.
Al-Siwi also highlighted ongoing work to align Libya’s national maritime legislation and regulations with relevant international conventions and standards.
In addition, the development program places emphasis on maritime security, navigational safety and marine environmental protection. The authority is pursuing these objectives in coordination with other relevant national institutions.
The initiatives form part of Libya’s efforts to strengthen its maritime capabilities and ensure that the national sector keeps pace with evolving international requirements.
Official Invitation Extended to IMO Secretary-General
At the beginning of the meeting, Al-Siwi conveyed greetings from Wissam Al-Idrissi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transportation for Administrative and Maritime Transport Affairs and head of the Libyan delegation participating in the IMO Council session.
He also delivered greetings from the Minister of Transportation of Libya’s Government of National Unity.
As part of the discussions, Al-Siwi presented Dominguez with an official invitation from Al-Idrissi to visit Libya.
The IMO Secretary-General welcomed the invitation and indicated that the necessary procedures would be undertaken to review the proposal and coordinate a potential visit through official and diplomatic channels.
The invitation represents an additional effort by Libya to strengthen direct engagement with the IMO. However, the meeting announcement did not specify a date for the proposed visit.
Strengthening Libya’s Engagement With the IMO
The meeting took place within the framework of Libya’s efforts to expand its participation in international maritime forums and develop closer institutional relations with the IMO.
The Ministry of Transportation and the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority are seeking to benefit from the organization’s technical programs and expertise to support the development of Libya’s maritime transport system.
These efforts include improving national maritime capabilities, strengthening technical and regulatory standards and enhancing compliance with international requirements related to maritime safety, security and environmental protection.
Through continued engagement with the IMO, Libyan maritime authorities aim to advance the institutional and technical development of the national sector while strengthening the country’s participation in international maritime cooperation.
Source: Libyan Ports and Maritime Transport Authority
