The 29th session of the Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) commenced on 29 July in Kingston, Jamaica, with H.E. Amara Sheik Mohammed Sowa, Deputy Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to the UN, presiding over the meeting.
The session, which runs until August 2, marks a significant milestone as the ISA celebrates its 30th anniversary.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Sowa welcomed delegates from around the world and highlighted the importance of the session, which will focus on key issues such as marine environmental protection, and sustainable seabed resource management.
ISA Secretary-General H.E. Mr. Michael W. Lodge reflected on the organization’s achievements over the past three decades and announced that San Marino has become the 170th Member State to accede to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The session featured critical discussions on the Secretary-General’s Annual Report, a proposed general policy to protect and preserve the marine environment, and the extension of the high-level action plan for 2019-2025.
The ISA is an intergovernmental body responsible for regulating seabed mining and promoting sustainable use of marine resources. Its 30th anniversary highlights the growing global commitment to protecting the world’s oceans and ensuring their resources are used for the benefit of all.
