IMO Maritime Safety Committee meets to discuss safety regulatory framework for alternative fuels 

The Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) convenes in London from 18 to 27 June 2025. Permanent Secretary Minna Kivimäki will participate in the meeting in London on 23–25 June to promote Finland’s new term as a member of IMO’s Council.

The topics to be discussed at the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee are the development of the safety regulatory framework for alternative fuels, autonomous maritime operations, cyber security and protection of submarine cables. 

With respect to the safety regulatory framework, the aim is to promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emission. At the meeting, a working group is to be set up to develop the safety regulatory framework for alternative fuels.

Another topic to be discussed in this connection is the need to update the regulations concerning nuclear-powered vessels. Finland considers that revising the safety requirements for nuclear-powered vessels is both topical and necessary. 

The meeting will also discuss the proposal of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) to increase cooperation between IMO and ITO in the protection of submarine cables. 

Finland aims for new term as member of IMO Council

Finland is a member of the IMO Council in 2024–2025 and seeks to be elected for the next term. Permanent Secretary Kivimäki will participate in the meeting in London to promote Finland’s candidacy for the IMO Council in 2026–2027. In connection with the session, Finland and Wärtsilä will organise an event on sustainable fuels and an event to promote Finland’s candidacy. Kivimäki will also meet representatives of several IMO Member States.

Finland wants to continue the work to promote the efficiency, transparency and diversity of IMO. If re-elected to the Council, Finland’s key priority will be to have the voices of professionals in maritime education and training and the next generation of seafarers heard.

What’s next?

The next session of the Maritime Safety Committee will be held in May 2026.

The new Member States of the Council will be elected in December 2025.

Inquiries:

Katja Viertävä, Senior Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 295 342 612, katja.viertava@gov.fi