London: International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez expressed his appreciation on Monday for China's active participation in the organization's work and conveyed his anticipation for China's continued support.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Chinese Ambassador to Britain Zheng Zeguang informed Dominguez of the Chinese government's decision to establish a Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the IMO. Zheng presented Dominguez with the instrument of full powers, appointing him as China's permanent representative to the organization.

China, as a Category A member of the IMO Council, has consistently upheld and practiced multilateralism, actively committing to the IMO's mission of "safe and efficient shipping on clean oceans," Zheng stated. The establishment of China's permanent mission is expected to further deepen China's exchanges and cooperation with the IMO Secretariat and its members, contributing to the advancement of international maritime cooperation and building a maritime community with a shared future.

The IMO, a UN specialized agency, is responsible for maritime safety and security, prevention of marine pollution from ships, and related legal matters. With its headquarters in London, the IMO currently includes 176 member states and three associate members. China resumed its lawful seat as an IMO member state in 1973 and has served as a Category A member of the organization's Council since 1989.