The International Maritime Organization has called on Russia to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea

The International Maritime Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations, has called on Russia to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea and to avoid threats to the supply of essential goods. In a statement released on July 25, the International Maritime Organization announced the decision at its 129th session of the Council, which took place from July 17 to 21.

The statement noted that the session provided an update on the situation of seafarers and shipping in the Black and Azov Seas, as well as the failure of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. The organization expressed its deep concern over this disruption of the "grain deal".

The International Maritime Organization reiterated its demand that Russia cease its illegal activities, ensure the safety of seafarers and international navigation in all affected areas, and comply with its obligations under international treaties.

The organization also called on the Russian Federation to refrain from threatening international supply chains that support other countries and provide food, medicine and essential goods to the population of Ukraine.

In the statement, the International Maritime Organization noted the support of the UN Secretary-General in finding solutions, as well as the efforts of Ukraine itself in restoring safe navigation in the northwestern part of the Black Sea, which is essential for the global supply chain and preventing a global food crisis.

The organization's statement also calls on all parties to seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis through dialogue and diplomatic efforts and to work together to ensure the stability and continuity of international supply chains.

In addition, the Council approved the appointment of Arsenio Antonio Domínguez Velasco from Panama as the organization's Secretary General for a four-year term starting January 1, 2024. However, this decision is still subject to approval by the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization, which will meet at its 33rd session from November 27 to December 6.

In particular, the organization also urged North Korea to cease "illegal and undeclared ballistic missile launches through international sea lanes". The IMO's response concerns the launches that took place on July 12-13. Prior to that, a new launch of two short-range ballistic missiles by the DPRK was announced on July 25, as well as a visit by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to North Korea.