Liberia Retains Category ‘A’ Seat on IMO Council -Officials Say Victory Cements Global Maritime Powerhouse Status

MONROVIA – Following months of shrewd diplomatic ground games by a combined team of the Liberia’s maritime diplomats and the Liberia Maritime Authority, a significant milestone has been achieved, underscoring the country’s unwavering commitment to maritime governance and accentuating its position as a major player in the global shipping industry. The country has been reelected to the prestigious Category A. Pundits say this achievement is a testament to Liberia’s robust maritime framework, its adherence to international regulations, and its proactive approach to addressing pressing issues such as environmental sustainability and maritime safety. And the nation has been celebrating, as echoed by LiMA boss, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., who has been heaping praises on the ‘comrades in arms’ and pointing to all its means for the nation. The Analyst reports.

The Republic of Liberia has once again secured its position among the world’s leading maritime nations with its re-election as a Category A member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.

The announcement was made today  following deliberations at the IMO’s 34th Assembly in London, where Member States voted to maintain Liberia in the highest decision-making tier of the Council for the 2026_ 2027 biennium. Liberia obtained 141 votes

Category A is the most influential grouping within the IMO, reserved for ten countries recognized as having the greatest interest in international shipping. Liberia’s re-election reflects its enduring reputation as a respected maritime nation and a reliable contributor to the safety, regulation, and development of global sea Transport.

According to a release, the country’s success in retaining this seat is tied to several key achievements and commitments including consistent adherence to IMO conventions and maritime regulations, reinforcing its dedication to safe, secure, and environmentally responsible shipping; a globally respected ship registry, ranking among the world’s largest and most compliant fleets; active participation in critical IMO committees, including the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) and the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC); timely settlement of its IMO financial obligations, including full payment of its 2025 assessments — a demonstration of fiscal discipline and institutional credibility and technical and diplomatic leadership, with Liberia contributing to discussions on emissions reduction, digitalization, and improved safety standards at sea.

These accomplishments are spearheaded by the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) and the Liberia Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR), whose coordinated efforts continue to elevate Liberia’s standing in the international maritime community.

Cllr. Lighe Sends Out Compliments

Receiving the news, the head of the Liberian Maritime Authority, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr. extended warmest congratulations to the Republic of Liberia on what he called its well-deserved re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category A.

The jubilant LiMA boss said the achievement not only highlights Liberia’s prominent role in global shipping but also affirms its ongoing leadership, credibility, and dedication to a safe, secure, and sustainable maritime industry.

“Liberia has continuously shown excellence as one of the world’s largest and most respected ship registries,” he said in a statement. “Its proactive participation in maritime governance, its commitment to enhancing regulatory compliance, and its steadfast support for international cooperation have strengthened the global maritime community.”

He noted that the re-election to Category A, reserved for the states with the largest interests in providing international shipping services, recognizes Liberia’s broad contributions to advancing maritime safety and environmental protection, modernizing ship registry services, championing seafarers’ welfare, and promoting innovation and digital transformation across the industry.

According to him, the renewed mandate reflects the trust and confidence that member states have in Liberia’s vision for the future of global shipping.

“It reaffirms the country’s role as a leading voice in shaping policies that promote fair, efficient, and forward-looking maritime governance,” he asserted, adding, “As Liberia continues its vital work, may this achievement inspire even greater progress, strengthening partnerships, raising global standards, and guiding the maritime industry toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

“Once again, congratulations to Liberia on this outstanding achievement. The international maritime community eagerly anticipates your ongoing leadership on the IMO Council. Council.”

He particularly congratulated President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, the Chairman and Members of the Board of Director of the Liberia Maritime Authority, The Liberia Embassy to the Court of St. James, the Permanent Representative of the Liberia Permanent Mission and Staff, and the Liberian Registry for the unflinching support towards Liberia’s historic re-election.