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Monrovia-October 1, 2025-The European Union (EU) has recognized Liberia’s important role as Chair of IMOs’ Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in addition to its critical role as Alternate Permanent Representative of Liberia to the IMO.
In a special statement at the 8th Conference of the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) in Monrovia, the EU noted that under Liberia’s leadership, the IMO 2023 GHG Strategy was successfully adopted.
“Anticipating a projected rise on climate change impacts, you have shown leadership in adopting this strategy that aims to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by round 2050, achieving Liberia’s global standing in maritime affairs. It brings us all one step closer to our joint agenda to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. It is an example that shows the potential to make a difference on the world stage when we all act in unison,” the Eu statement noted.
Liberia’s Rep. to IMO Amb. Kpadeh
The statement furthered, “In appreciation of the efforts made, the European Union continues to seek ways and means to underwrite its climate ambitions and those of its partners with innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds, blue bonds and other climate finance schemes that will allow significant investments to be made, in collaboration with financial development institutions. No doubt we continue to exchange on this point.”
EU noted that it is no secret that Liberia has an interest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions adding, “After all, Liberia has the world’s largest open-registry fleet, which as of figures recorded in late 2025, includes over 5,000 ships ferrying 286 million gross tons around the world.”
The European Union stated that this global fleet plays an essential role in global trade, moving over 80 percent of world merchandise by volume. As an open registry, it is accessible to foreign ship owners; allowing them to register their vessels and operate under Liberian maritime law. It is the world’s largest by tonnage, with a significant portion of the global fleet registered under Liberian flag.
“It will come as no surprise to anyone that the vessels’ contribution to global greenhouse gases is significant, accounting for 3 percent of all global GHG emissions, or about 1,000 million tonnes of CO2 annually. It carries a heavy burden on us all, not least Liberia. It is important to join hands and minds seeking ways to reduce the shipping industry’s reliance on carbon-intensive bunker fuels,” EU pointed out.
According to the statement, the European Union’s work on more fuel efficiency and reduced pollution in maritime shipping as well as the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism are just some of the instruments through which they can jointly address the worst excesses in terms of impact on climate change.
Delegates at the 8th Conference of the Association of AAMA in Monrovia
“The European Union shares the same objectives as Liberia and its people: peace and stability, and a sustainable and inclusive development. We want to be part of journey of creating a better future for young Liberians,” it added.
EU noted, “Today, it is time to recognize that Liberia and the European Union have built a long-term partnership founded on our shared values; the respect of human rights and fundamental freedom, democratic principles, good governance and the rule of law.”
The EU pointed out that these shared values bring us together, also on the Blue Economy and in safeguarding our oceans. “I am pleased to see so many delegates from all over Africa united in this room. The European Union effectively supports many activities on maritime security, including in the Gulf of Guinea region, as well as environmental protection, such as the “beyond order national jurisdiction,” the so-called BBNJ Agreement also known as the High Ses Treaty aiming to protect the integrity of marine life and resources.
The statement noted that ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) last June, Liberia signed up to the BBNJ Agreement, a big step forward in conservation of marine life and its biodiversity, protecting livelihood of Liberia’s fisher folk.
Through its global gateway the European Union (EU) supports partner countries such as Liberia, and closes the global investment gap in areas such as digital, transport, health, education and climate and energy. The latter is a key area where our interest fuse together.
“It is well known that the European Union Vision 2030 target is a 55 percent net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels. This is a legally binding target established by the European Climate Law as part of the European Green Deal, aiming to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.”
EU says it is working fervently to meet this target through the Fit for 55 legislative packages, which revises and creates new legislation and instruments, including the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., Commissioner and CEO of Liberia Maritime Authority
The event brings together African ministers, maritime administrators, international partners, the private sector, and industry leaders. Discussions are being focused on promoting and enhancing maritime safety and security, protection of the marine environment, financing and governance for Africa’s blue economy, and strengthening the continent’s role in global trade.