India secures re-election to International Maritime Organisation Council

It was officially stated that India had been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, securing the highest tally. The term for the council is set for the biennium 2024-25. According to an official statement, India's re-election places it among the 10 states demonstrating the largest interest in international seaborne trade. This group includes Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, commented that the highest number of votes reflects the government's commitment to enhancing India's diverse contributions to international maritime operations. It was further explained in the statement that the council, serving as the executive organ of IMO, holds the responsibility, under the assembly, of overseeing the organisation's work. During intervals between assembly sessions, the council assumes the functions of the assembly, excluding the authority to make recommendations to governments regarding maritime safety and pollution prevention.