By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
London – Liberia’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Dr. Harry Conway has been re-elected to Chair the IMO’s all powerful Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC).
The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) is responsible for addressing environmental issues related to shipping. This includes preventing and controlling pollution from ships, as covered by the MARPOL treaty, including oil, chemicals, sewage, garbage, and emissions.
The MEPC also handles matters like ballast water management, anti-fouling systems, ship recycling, pollution preparedness, and identifying special and particularly sensitive areas.
Minutes following Dr. Conway’ re-election as Chair of the MEPC, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization Ambassador Robert Kpadeh congratulated Dr. Conway for making Liberia proud among the comity of nations represented at the IMO.
In a statement, Ambassador Kpadeh said: “I take this time on behalf of Liberia to congratulate Dr. Harry T. Conway for his re-election as Chair of the Marine Environmental Protection Committee. We are all profoundly proud of his accent which come as a result of his outstanding supervision of the Committee in ways admired by many member states; indicative of the nomination made by Indonesia and seconded by Finland.”
Ambassador Kpadeh said the incredible milestone is a testament to Dr. Conway’s untiring dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to the Committee as well as his immense contribution to the enterprise of international shipping.
“Throughout Harry’s tenure, he has been a steadfast force behind the Committee’s success. Harry’s deep knowledge of international shipping, traditions and the functions of the Committee, as well as the dynamics of the global maritime industry combined with his natural ability to build consensus have helped to foster stimulating debates and an atmosphere for healthy dialogue.” Amb. Kpadeh said in the statement.
He said under Dr. Conway’s leadership, Amb. Kpadeh said the MEPC has made significant strides in effectively handling some of our industry’s enormous challenges.
“On the other hand, the hardworking and brilliant staff and members of the Committee also deserve congratulations. You all continue to do a fantastic job. You have been the propeller on Harry’s ship. Beyond Harry’s professional contributions, he has continuously sought to serve the community of academia, dedicating his time and talents by providing lectures to universities and other resource institutions.”
