China establishes Permanent Mission to IMO, strengthening maritime cooperation

Chinese Ambassador to the UK, Zheng Zeguang, paid a formal visit to the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on Monday, delivering official notice of China's decision to establish a Permanent Mission to the UN agency.

During the meeting, Ambassador Zheng presented his credentials to Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, confirming his concurrent appointment as China's Permanent Representative to the IMO.

Ambassador Zheng emphasized that the Chinese government places high importance on the IMO's role in promoting maritime safety, environmental protection, and international cooperation.

The new Permanent Mission is expected to further enhance China's dialogue with the IMO Secretariat and Member States, and reinforce joint efforts to address shared challenges in global shipping and marine conservation.

Secretary-General Dominguez welcomed the announcement and the presentation of Ambassador Zheng's full powers. 

He expressed appreciation for China's active participation in IMO affairs and looked forward to deeper cooperation with the new mission in place.

Founded in 1948 and headquartered in London, the IMO is a specialized UN agency that sets global standards for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping. 

The organization currently includes 176 Member States and three Associate Members. China resumed its IMO membership in 1973 and has served as a Category A Council member since 1989.