The IMO Assembly has unanimously endorsed the appointment of Mr. Kitack Lim (Republic of Korea) as the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with effect from 1 January 2016, for an initial term of four years.
Mr. Lim was president of Busan Port Authority (until end July 2015). He served as the Republic of Korea’s Deputy Permanent Representative to IMO from 2006 to 2009 and was Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI) from 2002 to 2004.
Addressing the Assembly, Mr. Lim pledged his commitment to undertake his duties with devotion and prudence throughout his tenure.
“IMO currently faces an array of challenges and issues such as implementation of Member State Audit Scheme, emissions from ships, application of Goal Based Standards, increasing traffic in polar waters, introduction of e-Navigation, the Ballast Water Management Convention, counter-piracy activities, cyber security and safety standards for passenger ships and fishing vessels, etc.
“However, with the collective wisdom and insight of all Member States and stakeholders, I am confident that we can withstand the storm and resolve such difficult issues. I hope we can come together as one to pave a new future for IMO, based on the noble efforts and achievements to date,” Mr. Lim said.
Outgoing Secretary General Mr. Koji Sekimizu congratulated Mr. Lim on his appointment. In a symbolic act of transition and succession, Mr. Sekimizu handed over a comprehensive briefing paper on IMO’s recent achievements and ongoing objectives, the Secretariat’s structure and support work, the Organization’s financial arrangements and other relevant topics.