On 27 April 2021 Ambassador Vadym PRYSTAIKO presented his credentials to Secretary-General Kitak LIM as Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization.

Following the presentation of credentials, Ambassador Prystaiko and Secretary-General Lim discussed the status of Ukraine’s cooperation with the IMO, steps taken in implementing the IMO basic conventions, as well as needs for technical assistance aimed at further capacity-building of Ukraine maritime sector. National efforts to introduce modern standards of seafarers’ training and certification were also highlighted. 

Special emphasis was given to the continued Russian Federation’s unlawful actions in the region of the Black-Azov sea, including the recent suspension of the right of innocent passage in maritime areas adjacent to the temporarily occupied Crimea. Ambassador Prystaiko called on the IMO to take a proactive stance in dealing with the Russian actions that jeopardize regional security as well as infringe the safety and security of navigation and impede access of commercial vessels to Ukraine's ports in the Sea of Azov.

Secretary-General Lim noted the importance of technical cooperation programs to increase the capabilities of Member States so that they conform to the modern requirements and were able to promote the goals of the Organization. Participants also discussed Ukraine’s initiatives regarding fair treatment of seafarers and their protection in time of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is indispensable for the existence of international merchant shipping. SG Lim also expressed concerns over the continued tensions in the Black-Azov seas that prevent unleashing the full potential of maritime merchant and cruise shipping in this region.