Kingston, Jamaica, is hosting the 31st Session of the Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) this week, bringing together government officials, representatives of international organizations, and maritime industry leaders to discuss the governance and sustainable use of the world’s seabed resources.
A key highlight of this year’s Assembly is the participation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, marking the first time an IMO Secretary-General has attended an ISA Assembly.
According to an International Seabed Authority (ISA) press release, ISA Secretary-General Leticia Carvalho welcomed the visit, describing it as “an important moment in the relationship between our two organizations and a great sign for what the future holds.”
While in Jamaica, Dominguez met with several of the country’s leading maritime institutions, including the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ), the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), Kingston Wharves Limited, and Kingston Freeport Terminal.
The engagements provided an opportunity to showcase Jamaica’s maritime sector, highlighting areas such as maritime governance, education and training, port operations, and the country’s role in international trade.
As part of his visit, the IMO Secretary-General also met with seafarers aboard ships docked in Kingston. During those interactions, he acknowledged the essential role seafarers play in sustaining global commerce and reaffirmed the IMO’s ongoing commitment to supporting the people who are at the heart of the maritime industry.
The 31st Session of the ISA Assembly continues this week with delegates examining issues related to the governance, regulation, and sustainable management of seabed resources. The gathering provides a platform for governments and maritime stakeholders to collaborate on policies aimed at balancing resource development with environmental stewardship.
