Liberia Strengthens Global Commitment to Sustainable Maritime Transport at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024: A Call to Action for Maritime Sustainability

Beijing, China – September 25, 2024 – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) reaffirmed its dedication 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".

Addressing the GSTF-2024 on Wednesday, Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., emphasized Liberia’s pivotal role in the global maritime sector and outlining the nation's commitment to enhancing sustainability in international shipping.

In his speech, Commissioner Lighe, Sr. expressed his appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for its enduring partnership, particularly through the recent renewal of the Liberia-China Maritime Transport Agreement. This bilateral agreement is expected to further strengthen cooperation and ties between the two nations, advancing sustainable maritime trade and fostering economic growth.

He highlighted that 80% of global trade is facilitated by maritime transport, underscoring its indispensable role in maintaining global commerce. He called for the international maritime community to adopt energy-efficient technologies and promote the use of alternative fuels to reduce environmental impacts.

“Sustainable transport requires us to move people and goods without depleting the natural resources of our environment,” said Commissioner Lighe, Sr. “This means deploying energy-efficient technologies across all modes of transport, especially in the maritime sector, which remains the most efficient and essential to global trade.”

Commissioner Lighe, Sr. further emphasized Liberia’s commitment to supporting the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) green shipping initiatives, which aim to reduce CO2 emissions through improved vessel design and the deployment of renewable energy technologies in ports and ships.

He concluded by urging industry leaders to continue developing innovative solutions that promote a global sustainable multimodal transport system. His remarks reflect Liberia’s ambition to lead in creating energy-efficient maritime infrastructure, including greener ports, modernized rails, and bridges that facilitate global trade while minimizing environmental impacts.

Attending the GSTF-2024 are international dignitaries, transport ministers, heads of international organizations, foreign diplomats, among others. It aims to provide 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.