Liberia Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Sustainability at Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024

Beijing, China – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) has strengthened its global commitment to sustainable maritime transport during the Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024 (GSTF-2024), hosted by China’s Ministry of Transport in Beijing under the theme, "Sustainable Transport: Connecting the World through Logistics."

In a keynote address on Wednesday, Commissioner/CEO of LiMA, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., highlighted Liberia’s significant role in the global maritime industry, reiterating the country’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices in international shipping.

Commissioner Lighe expressed gratitude to the People's Republic of China for its continued partnership with Liberia, referencing the recent renewal of the Liberia-China Maritime Transport Agreement. He emphasized that this bilateral agreement would further enhance cooperation between the two nations, fostering economic growth and sustainable maritime trade.

"Maritime transport facilitates 80% of global trade, playing an essential role in global commerce," said Commissioner Lighe. He called on the international maritime community to adopt energy-efficient technologies and explore alternative fuels to minimize environmental impacts.

“Sustainable transport means moving people and goods without depleting our natural resources,” Lighe remarked.

 “It requires the deployment of energy-efficient technologies across all modes of transport, particularly in the maritime sector, which remains the most critical and efficient means of global trade.”

Lighe also reaffirmed Liberia’s support for the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) green shipping initiatives, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions through enhanced vessel design and the use of renewable energy technologies in ports and ships. He encouraged industry leaders to develop innovative solutions to create a more sustainable global transport system.

Liberia’s active involvement in GSTF-2024 demonstrates its commitment to leading the charge in building energy-efficient maritime infrastructure, including greener ports and modernized transportation networks that support global trade while minimizing environmental damage.

GSTF-2024 brought together global dignitaries, transport ministers, heads of international organizations, and diplomats, providing a platform to advance cooperation in creating a sustainable, efficient, and inclusive global transport system. Liberia’s participation further underscores its leadership role in the maritime sector and its dedication to a sustainable future for international trade.