IMSO attends IALA 1st Assembly – A Historic Milestone for Maritime Safety

IMSO is proud to take part in the first Assembly of the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA) as an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO) – a moment that recognizes IALA’s long-standing contributions to global maritime safety.

For decades, IALA has played a crucial role in harmonizing Marine Aids to Navigation (AtoN), ensuring vessels can safely and efficiently navigate the world’s waterways. From buoys and lighthouses to digital navigation systems, IALA’s work supports seafarers, port operations, and global trade. Now, as an IGO, IALA is poised to enhance its impact, shaping the future of maritime navigation through innovation, digitalization, and international cooperation.

As shipping embraces new technologies, connectivity and satellite communications will be key to safer, smarter, and more efficient navigation. IMSO, as the overseer of the satellite component of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and Auditor of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system, shares IALA’s mission of ensuring maritime safety in an increasingly digital world.

The adoption of the IALA Singapore Declaration at this Assembly marks a bold step toward enhancing global cooperation, embracing technological advancements, and securing the future of Marine Aids to Navigation.

During the Assembly, IMSO Director General, Mr. Laurent Parenté, delivered an opening statement, emphasizing the critical link between digitalization, navigation, and maritime safety. He underscored the role of satellite communication in supporting safe navigation, emergency response, and global trade as technology evolves.

IMSO extends its congratulations to IALA Secretary-General, Mr. Francis Zachariae for his leadership and dedication in guiding IALA into this new era. We are honoured to stand alongside IALA as it embarks on this exciting chapter in maritime governance.

Congratulations to IALA on this well-deserved achievement!