The Maldives’ new Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), High Commissioner Iruthisham Adam, formally presented her Letter of Credence to IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Antonio Domínguez Velasco in a ceremony held yesterday at the IMO headquarters in London.
During the presentation, High Commissioner Iruthisham conveyed greetings from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and reiterated the Maldives’ commitment to deepening cooperation with the IMO. She also highlighted the government’s interest in enhancing national capabilities in maritime affairs through continued engagement with the organisation’s programmes and technical initiatives.
Secretary-General Domínguez Velasco welcomed High Commissioner Iruthisham to her new role and assured the IMO’s continued support for the Maldives in areas of shared interest, including maritime safety, environmental protection, and capacity building.
The Maldives has been a Member State of the IMO since 31 May 1967. High Commissioner Iruthisham becomes only the second Permanent Representative from the Maldives to be accredited to the organisation, underscoring the country’s intention to play a more active role in international maritime governance.
The IMO, a specialised agency of the United Nations established in 1948, is responsible for developing a global regulatory framework for the safety, security, and environmental sustainability of international shipping. With 174 Member States and 3 Associate Members, the IMO facilitates coordination and cooperation among maritime nations to ensure that the shipping industry operates safely, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact.
High Commissioner Iruthisham was joined at the ceremony by Deputy High Commissioner Mohamed Ahmed, First Secretary Mariyam Asif, and First Secretary Sara Khalid, all based at the Maldivian High Commission in the United Kingdom.
