BEIJING, China – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable maritime transport at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024 (GSTF-2024), hosted by the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing under the theme, “Sustainable Transport: Connecting the World through Logistics.”
Speaking at the GSTF-2024 on Wednesday, Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., highlighted Liberia’s pivotal role in the global maritime sector and reiterated the nation’s dedication to enhancing sustainability in international shipping.
In his address, Commissioner Lighe expressed his gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for its longstanding partnership, notably through the recent renewal of the Liberia-China Maritime Transport Agreement. This bilateral agreement is poised to further strengthen cooperation and deepen ties between the two nations, promoting sustainable maritime trade and fostering economic growth.
He emphasized that 80% of global trade is conducted through maritime transport, underscoring its crucial role in sustaining global commerce. He called on the international maritime community to adopt energy-efficient technologies and promote the use of alternative fuels to mitigate environmental impacts.
“Sustainable transport involves moving people and goods without depleting the natural resources of our environment,” stated Commissioner Lighe. “This requires deploying energy-efficient technologies across all modes of transport, particularly in the maritime sector, which is the most efficient and vital for global trade.”
Commissioner Lighe also highlighted Liberia’s support for the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) green shipping initiatives, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions through improved vessel designs and the deployment of renewable energy technologies in ports and ships.
He concluded his remarks by urging industry leaders to continue developing innovative solutions that foster a global sustainable multimodal transport system. His statements reflect Liberia’s aspiration to lead in creating energy-efficient maritime infrastructure, including greener ports, modernized railways, and bridges that facilitate global trade while minimizing environmental impacts.
Attending the GSTF-2024 are international dignitaries, transport ministers, heads of international organizations, and foreign diplomats, among others. The forum serves as a high-level platform for advancing global transport cooperation and fostering a transportation system that is safe, efficient, green, economical, inclusive, and resilient. Liberia’s active participation in these global initiatives underscores its role as a leader in the maritime sector and its commitment to a sustainable future for global trade.
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