2026/11/10

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), at its 138th Session of the Council held during November 2 to 6, decided to renew the mandate of the incumbent Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez for another 4-year term (Jan 1, 2028 to Dec 31, 2031). 　Japan, the Category-A Council member, expressed its strong support to re-appointment of the incumbent Secretary-General Dominguez, highlighting that since taking office in Jan 2024, he had been vigorously addressing various issues, including maritime security challenges, safety of seafarers and advancement of greenhouse gas reduction, and that his strong leadership should continue to be desired for the IMO.

　The IMO Council, composed of 40 members elected every two years, deliberates on key maritime issues including safety of ships and seafarers, environmental protection, and matters concerning the management of the IMO.
　Since being the member of the IMO in 1958, Japan has continuously been elected as the Council member and has actively participated in and contributed to its deliberations.

The 138th Session of the Council:
 
Date and venue
　November 2 to 6, 2026, at the IMO Headquarters in London, the United Kingdom
 
Major Outcomes (please see ANNEX for details)

1. Protection of Vital Shipping Lanes
2. Contract of the Secretary-General for the Next Term
3. IMO’s Resource Management
4. IMO Gender Equality Award