First IALA assembly emphasises collaboration and marine safety

It became an intergovernmental organisation in 2024.

Singapore has hosted the inaugural International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA) general assembly wherein leaders highlighted the importance of cooperation amongst governments for stakeholder safety.

In his keynote address, Singapore’s Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean noted that international cooperation is vital in enhancing navigational safety.

The IALA became an intergovernmental organisation on 22 August 2024, following the entry into force of the Convention on the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation.

IALA Secretary-General Francis Zachariae said this transition will enable the group “to collaborate more effectively with governments and other intergovernmental organisations.”

“Most importantly, it will strengthen IALA’s role as the leading international technical authority in its field, significantly enhancing global recognition of its work and the standards it seeks to establish,” he said, adding that this will promote greater harmonisation of Marine Aids to Navigation and related services worldwide.