Conclusion

More than half of the world’s population lives within 60km of the shore-line, with many of the world’s poor crowded into coastal areas and dependent on the resources of the sea. The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development recognized that the marine environment – including the oceans and all seas and adjacent areas – was a positive asset that presents opportunities for sustainable development on a global scale.

However, for those opportunities to be fully realized, a safe, efficient and environmentally-friendly maritime transport infrastructure needs to be in place.

In partnership with those who can assist – including national aid agencies, industry, international and regional organizations – IMO aims to help developing countries establish the basis for safer shipping and cleaner oceans.

Governments – donors and recipients alike – and industry are urged to join with IMO in this important task by supporting its Technical Co-operation Programme by whatever means they can.