Doha: The State of Qatar has officially deposited its instrument of accession to Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78) under the 1997 Protocol. This significant step was marked during a meeting between HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United Kingdom and Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani, and HE Secretary-General of IMO Arsenio Antonio Dominguez at the organization's headquarters in London.
According to Qatar News Agency, the meeting highlighted the crucial role of Qatar's accession to Annex VI in supporting international efforts to reduce air pollution from ships and enhance the protection of the marine environment. The discussions also focused on the cooperation between Qatar and the IMO, exploring ways to enhance and develop these relations, alongside exchanging views on several mutually interesting topics related to maritime transport.
The leaders also addressed current regional developments in the Strait of Hormuz, considering the ongoing updates in the region and their impact on navigation, maritime transport, and supply chains. They emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and continuity of maritime navigation and international trade through vital waterways, adhering to international law provisions.