H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, pledged to work with International Maritime Organization (IMO) build a tougher, more resilient industry, and on the challenges ahead.
Speaking at the opening of Seatrade Maritime Middle East 2021 in Dubai, the Minister thanked all who voted for the UAE in its successful election as a Category-B member of IMO council for the third consecutive time.
“We look forward to work with the IMO to build this industry to become tougher and tougher in the future, and to become more resilient. But at the same time, we need to take care of some of the challenges facing humanity.”
These challenges include global warming and the need for net zero emissions. The UAE has set a target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 through the UAE Net Zero Initiative aligned with the Paris Agreement.
“We set a target for net zero and we're working very hard on it. And that these targets these targets will also address the requirements of maritime,” H.E. Al Mazrouei said.
“We are ready to work, we are to positively impact the IMO and to work with you toward the common target, and at the same time addressing some of those challenges.”
The Minister also highlighted the vital role seafarers have played in keeping the world connected and economies afloat during the pandemic. He stressed that we needed to take care of the seafarers.
H.E. Al Mazrouei said the UAE highly regarded seafarers and it must be ensured they can get medical treatment during the pandemic as they work on the high seas in tough conditions away from their families.
“Therefore, we will work with the IMO to improve legislation and work with you to improve the way that we are conducting our business,” the Minister said.
