TEHRAN – Ali Mousavi, Iran’s representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), addressed the extraordinary general meeting of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), highlighting his country’s views on the importance of protecting the marine environment.
Mozi News reported Mousavi’s remarks at the MEPC meeting held at the IMO headquarters in London from October 14 to 17 that Iran also emphasized the need for balanced implementation of international commitments and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
The implementation of environmental policies must be proportionate to each country’s economic strength, and “taking into account developmental differences in decision-making can lead to inequalities and put undue pressure on developing countries,” the official said.
The representative of Iran noted the important role of the ocean in human life and called for increased international cooperation to protect the health of marine ecosystems and prevent environmental damage caused by industrial activities and shipping.
MEPC works on environmental issues under the authority of IMO. This includes the control and prevention of ship-source pollution such as petroleum, chemicals transported in bulk, sewage, garbage, and ship emissions such as air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. Other matters covered include ballast water management, antifouling systems, ship recycling, pollution preparedness and response, and identification of special areas and particularly sensitive sea areas.
IMO held an extraordinary meeting to consider the adoption of the IMO Net Zero Framework (NZF).
The IMO Net Zero Framework comprises a set of new international regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, in line with IMO’s 2023 GHG Strategy. This includes two key elements: a global fuel standard and a global GHG emissions pricing mechanism.
The Committee will also consider a draft workplan for the entry into force of the IMO Net Zero Framework.
Tehran ready to host COP 7
The Department of the Environment (DOE) announced its readiness to hold the Seventh Conference of the Parties to the Framework Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea, known as COP 7.
IRNA quoted DOE Secretary Shina Ansari as saying that Iran is willing to maintain and promote cooperation with the Tehran Treaty, improve its structure and establish a permanent secretariat.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Mahir Aliyev, Secretary of the Framework Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea (Tehran Convention), in Tehran on October 13.
The two officials also discussed the arrangements and preparations for hosting COP 7, the Caspian Sea littoral states’ perspectives on cooperation to advance the goals of the Tehran Treaty, and the reduction of pollution and hazardous substances in the Caspian Sea.
MT/MG