IMO approves IMO for Ukraine project aimed at restoring, modernizing Ukraine's maritime infrastructure
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has officially approved the launch of the IMO for Ukraine project, which foresees support in the areas of maritime safety, institutional capacity development, as well as the restoration and modernization of maritime infrastructure.
According to a statement released Tuesday by the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development following a visit by a Ukrainian delegation led by Deputy Minister Andriy Kashuba to London, the project will include an assessment of the damage inflicted on Ukraine’s maritime sector by the armed aggression of the Russian Federation and the compilation of a list of priority needs.
This involves documenting damage to port infrastructure, maritime safety systems, and the marine environment.
"We expect that this initiative will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities in the field of maritime safety and contribute to the recovery of the maritime sector amid ongoing aggression," Kashuba was quoted as saying in the release.
As part of the project, support will also be provided for the further implementation of the Maritime Single Window (MSW) for electronic information exchange between vessels and government authorities during port calls, stay, and departure.
Other areas of cooperation include preparing Ukraine to accede to the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC).
"This will enhance national and regional capacity to respond to environmental incidents, particularly in the Black Sea, and improve coordination with international partners," the ministry explained.
During the visit, Kashuba also held a bilateral meeting with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.
In addition, on the sidelines of the Committee, the Ukrainian delegation held a bilateral meeting with the Canadian delegation, where the Canadian side confirmed its readiness to continue supporting Ukraine within the IMO framework.
