“No Nation Left Behind”: Liberia Maritime Authority Commissioner Calls for Fair Global Shipping Transition at North Bund Forum

Shanghai, China – October 2025 — The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., has urged world maritime leaders to ensure that the transition towards sustainable global shipping is equitable, inclusive, and supportive of developing nations.

Speaking at the Prestigious North Bund Forum in Shanghai, Commissioner/CEO Lighe praised China’s “indisputable influence and leadership” in global shipping and highlighted the strong maritime cooperation between Liberia and the People’s Republic of China under a Maritime Transport Agreement that covers areas such as capacity building, port access, and the recognition and acceptance of seafarer documentations, among others.

He emphasized that while Liberia fully supports global decarbonization efforts, the process must not “leave any country behind,” noting that many developing nations face financial and infrastructural challenges in adapting to green shipping standards. “The seaports of most developing countries are unprepared for the required transition and may incur excessive economic costs,” he cautioned.

Highlighting the forum’s theme, “Collaborating for Sustainable Global Shipping and Aviation,” Commissioner/CEO Lighe called for global unity under the

International Maritime Organization (IMO) to avoid disruption and promote shared prosperity.

He reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to global cooperation, sustainable development, and the One China Policy, concluding: “China is a true friend, and we look forward to continued collaboration for a fair and sustainable maritime future.”

The North Bund Forum is one of the world’s leading platforms for maritime dialogue, drawing senior government officials, industry leaders, and academics to discuss innovation, sustainability, and economic cooperation in global shipping and aviation.