IMO, 12 April, London 2025— The Cook Islands commends the outcomes of the 83rd session of the International Maritime Organization's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83), marking a watershed moment in the decarbonisation of maritime transport amidst the global challenge of climate change.
For the first time, a global multilateral organisation has successfully adopted a mandatory provision to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping. This achievement—rooted in consensus, cooperation, collaboration, and compromise—sets a precedent not only for the maritime sector but also serves as a beacon of hope and an example for other sectors to follow, especially high-emitting industries without which keeping the 1.5°C goal alive is compromised.
“This is not about winners or losers,” said the Cook Islands delegation to IMO MEPC 83. “In effect, we are all losers in the face of climate change. No matter how you look at it, the urgency to act has never been clearer—and this important step sets us on the right course.”
The Cook Islands recognises the determination and unity displayed by IMO member states in reaching this landmark agreement, which aligns with the global ambition for a net-zero future by 2050. This first-ever global mandatory climate provision in maritime transport is embraced by the Cook Islands, given the sustained and increasing impacts of climate change on the Pacific region.
While the Cook Islands would have welcomed a specific clause waiving certain requirements for ships serving the South Pacific—where access to compliant alternative fuels will remain a challenge in the foreseeable future—it remains committed to the spirit of good faith that underpins the IMO and MARPOL Annex VI parties.
The Cook Islands now looks to the IMO and its member states to ensure that compensatory mechanisms are swiftly put in place. These mechanisms must shield vulnerable populations, such as those in the Pacific, from the anticipated rise in freight costs for essential goods and services, thereby safeguarding Pacific communities’ sustainable development aspirations and food security. For a remote, large ocean island state like the Cook Islands, any negative impacts will necessarily be disproportionate, as shipping is our lifeline without which our people and their livelihoods cannot be sustained.
After ten years of negotiations—with final discussions concluding last week—the Cook Islands is satisfied that once again, under the leadership of IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, multilateralism has prevailed. This is a moment of progress. A moment of unity. A moment where the international community has proven that when we come together, we can build a bridge—a bridge of fairness and justice—connecting all nations for a sustainable future and leaving no one behind.
For insight into MEPC 83 summary outcomes, see https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/MeetingSummaries/Pages/MEPC-83-Summary-Temporary.aspx
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