Russia initiates IMO Assembly resolution to encourage more states ratify MARPOL Annex VI

Russia comes forward with an initiative on development of IMO Assembly resolution to encourage as many states as possible to ratify MARPOL Annex VI (setting restrictions for sulphur content in marine fuel). The matter was on the agenda at the 18th meeting of the Russian-German Joint Commission on maritime shipping held in Saint-Petersburg, says IAA PortNews correspondent. The Russian delegation at the meeting was headed by Vitaly Klyuev, Director of the Department of State Policy for Maritime and River Transport of Russia’s Transport Ministry.

As of today, MARPOL Annex VI has been ratified by more than 70 of 150 IMO Member States accounting for 96% of world merchant shipping tonnage. Yet, the outreach of states is still limited. For example, Iceland has not ratified the document.

In this context, there comes a risk of vessels’ transition to the flags of such states. Therefore, the Parties to MARPOL are interested in expansion of the list of states accepting Annex VI and complying with its requirements.

Russia’s initiative was supported by the German side.

“Germany as IMO Member State is interested in such a resolution”, said Reinhard Klingen, Director-General for Waterways and Shipping, German Federal  Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.