PMO News Portal - The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirmed its readiness to expand international collaboration in transit, maritime transport, safety, training, and marine environmental protection during the 34th Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London. The remarks were delivered by Saeed Rasouli, Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development and Managing Director of the Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO), who headed Iran’s high-level delegation.
Speaking before the IMO Assembly, Rasouli outlined Iran’s strategic maritime position, emphasizing that the country—boasting more than 5,800 kilometers of coastline across the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Caspian Sea, and operating one of the world’s top-20 merchant fleets—has long been a leading IMO founding member committed to advancing global maritime affairs.
Rasouli reported that Iran carried out 378 maritime search and rescue operations in 2024 and 2025, saving 2,150 lives, including the rescue of 73 people by an Iranian-flagged vessel in the Mediterranean on 7 July 2025.
He stressed that maritime safety, shipping operations, and marine environmental protection are highly technical fields governed by conventions such as MARPOL, SOLAS, and STCW, an warned against the introduction of non-technical or politically motivated considerations into IMO processes.
Iran, he said, appreciates member states that uphold their obligations under the principle of constructive cooperation and Article 1 of the IMO Convention.
Rasouli also highlighted that Iran’s Five-Year Development Plan designates the maritime economy as a national priority, with a focus on strengthening port infrastructure, expanding maritime services, boosting transit flows, and supporting coastal development.
Citing Iran’s skilled workforce, strategic geographic position, and supportive investment regulations, he reaffirmed the country’s full readiness to play a more active and constructive role in advancing the IMO’s objectives.
“Iran stands prepared to deepen international maritime cooperation and contribute meaningfully to the global decision-making process,” Rasouli concluded, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests while supporting the broader goals of the international maritime community.