Dominica: The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica has launched – Cleopatra Doumbia Henry for the candidacy of Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) during the reception held to present the candidature of Dominica at IMO Delegates Lounge, 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR today (Monday) 5th June 2023 from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.
According to recent updates, a number of Ministers and delegates from the Caribbean attended the event. The attendees included the Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland, The Foreign Affairs Minister of S Kitts and Nevis, Denzil Douglas, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Dominica, Vince Henderson, and other CARICOM (The Caribbean Community and Common Market) leaders.
In addition, during the event, Cleopatra Doumbia Henry, the newly launched candidature Secretary General of the IMO by the Government of Dominica, delivered her opening remarks. She noted that under the guidance of the IMO Assembly and IMO Council, she is committed wholeheartedly committed to performing her duties and responsibilities.
In her remarks, IMO Secretary-General – Cleopatra Henry noted, “I will foster an inclusive approach at the International Maritime Organization initiating discussions over key matters with the member states, stakeholders, academia, civil society and observer delegations.” She showcased her intentions to collaborate with other international organizations, including the ITF, ICS, ILO, UN and FAO.
Furthermore, she stated in his speech that she would put in hard work and enormous efforts to give the IMO a better shape while elevating its global profile.
She said that the IMO has a significant role to play in the development of the Maritime sector and its future. A comprehensive, informative campaign will be organized to enhance the engagement between her and the public over essential topics, she said.
Moreover, regarding promoting and developing the Maritime Sector, the Candidate for the post of Secretary General of the IMO, Cleopatra Henry, also outlined that she would work to strengthen the Global Maritime Community by promoting a strong and united global maritime community. She stated that the foundation would be laid on integrity, cooperation, trust and shared responsibility through continued collaboration and discussions at the international level.
Further in her regards, IMO Candidate from the Commonwealth of Dominica, Cleopatra, stated, “We stand at the tipping point of a transformative era for the maritime sector, consequently fostering global consensus for a sustainable and resilient future is more critical than ever before.”
Additionally, she continued and noted that the world is already experiencing the tangible impacts of climate change on our lives, and this issue is a global priority.
The responsibilities that the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization have to fulfil include building global consensus with the other member countries and states, including social partners and industries and carrying to lead the change of the organization, said the criteria.
On the other hand, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Energy and International Business of Dominica, Vince Henderson, shared his remarks applauding the candidacy of Cleopatra Doumbia Henry.
He stated she is a visionary leader who has delivered better results whenever and wherever needed. Furthermore, the Minister of Foreign Affairs also stated that under the leadership of Cleopatra Henry, a new opportunity would arise to transform the Maritime sector at the global level.
“She will embrace and leverage technology to reshape the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the maritime sector,” he added. Minister Vince Henderson called Cleopatra Henry the visionary leader who would transform the whole sector.
On his part, the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica has also expressed his support for the candidacy of Cleopatra Henry for the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
“She has created a legacy of visionary and transformative leadership defined by excellence, action and compassion,” Prime Minister noted. He also said that under her transformative leadership, the maritime sector would benefit significantly through innovative and technologically advanced measures and ways.
“The Commonwealth of Dominica has nominated Dr Cleopatra Doumbia Henry for the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) position.
We are confident that her wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise, along with her wide network, diplomatic acumen, and transformative leadership, is exactly what the International Maritime Organization needs at this time to strengthen it into an agile, adaptable and resilient and sustainable body.” Said the Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit.
