SLMA Deepens Maritime Ties with Saudi Arabia at IMO Safety Committee Session in London
The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) is pleased to announce a highly constructive and forward-looking bilateral engagement between its Executive Director, Dr. Daniel Kaitibi, and Eng. Kamal Mohammed Al-Junaidi, the Alternate Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The meeting took place on the margins of the 110th Session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee, hosted at the IMO Headquarters in London. This pivotal session gathers maritime leaders and policymakers from around the world to deliberate on critical issues impacting global maritime safety and regulatory frameworks.
The bilateral discussion focused on laying the foundation for a collaborative and strategic partnership between the maritime authorities of Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia. Both parties expressed strong interest in advancing mutual cooperation across several key areas, including:
- Maritime safety and security
- Capacity building and professional training
- Technical assistance and regulatory harmonization
- Sustainable and innovative maritime development
Dr. Kaitibi reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to strengthening international maritime relations and emphasized the importance of engaging with fellow IMO member states to support Sierra Leone’s maritime transformation agenda.
“Our dialogue with Saudi Arabia marks a significant step toward expanding Sierra Leone’s footprint in global maritime affairs,” he stated. “By aligning our efforts with international best practices and forging meaningful partnerships, we can unlock new opportunities for Sierra Leone’s maritime industry and workforce.”
He further noted that SLMA remains committed to leveraging such diplomatic engagements to enhance compliance with IMO instruments and to promote maritime safety, environmental protection, and capacity enhancement in line with international standards.
For his part, Eng. Al-Junaidi welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with SLMA and expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s willingness to share its maritime expertise and explore opportunities for joint initiatives that foster regional and international maritime development.
A Vision for Global Maritime Cooperation
This engagement is part of SLMA’s broader strategy to position Sierra Leone as an active and responsible member of the global maritime community. It aligns with ongoing efforts by the Government of Sierra Leone to promote trade, security, and sustainable development through improved maritime governance and international cooperation.
The meeting also reinforces SLMA’s role as a key player in advancing Sierra Leone’s national development priorities within the context of regional integration and global maritime diplomacy.
As Dr. Kaitibi continues to represent Sierra Leone at international maritime forums, SLMA remains focused on building robust networks that will translate into tangible outcomes—from enhanced port operations and navigational safety to job creation and blue economy growth.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration continues to champion maritime diplomacy and development on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone.
