by Xinhua writer Gao Wencheng
LONDON, April 29 (Xinhua) -- China's achievements in port electrification and the green transformation of shipping have played a positive role in advancing the global maritime sector's decarbonization, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez has said.
Dominguez said this in a recent interview with Xinhua ahead of the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84), scheduled for April 27 to May 1 at the IMO headquarters in London.
He emphasized that China's active participation in IMO affairs is reflected in its contributions across multiple areas, including port operations, seafarer training and education, ship design and construction, and the implementation of IMO instruments.
Dominguez said China's positions on introducing new technologies and developing alternative fuels have provided important input for international deliberations.
"China is evolving, particularly when it comes to the electrification and automation of the ports," he said, noting that such progress enables ships to reduce emissions while at berth.
He also highlighted China's growing investment in alternative fuels and emerging technologies, including solar and wind energy, battery propulsion, and carbon capture and sequestration, which is helping drive the green transition of global shipping.
"If we look at the number of maritime green corridors involving China, connecting its ports with ports around the world," Dominguez said, "that also sends a signal, while facilitating the collection of information and know-how, which will help us support other countries in advancing decarbonization."
On maritime capacity-building for developing countries, Dominguez said this remains a key focus of IMO's current work. He said the organization conducts assessments to identify areas where assistance is most needed and helps guide countries in securing the necessary support.
"I will encourage China to continue to do that and to enhance it if possible or whenever achievable, and to keep bringing their experience to IMO," he said, adding that such contributions also help improve the organization's provision of technical cooperation to member states.
He said that countries like China play an important role through bilateral and multilateral cooperation, as well as participation in IMO-led projects worldwide, facilitating the exchange of information and technologies and supporting the transition toward greener shipping.
During the interview, Dominguez also addressed the progress and challenges surrounding negotiations on the Net-Zero Framework. He recalled that the expected result was not achieved in October 2025 as the IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee voted to adjourn discussions on the Net-Zero Framework for one year, but a great deal of information emerged from the debates.
The upcoming MEPC 84 represents an opportunity for member states to come together, renegotiate all those discussions based on the proposals on the table and the Net-Zero Framework, Dominguez said.
He also stressed the need to clarify the administration of economic measures, including the distribution of funds and implementation guidelines.
"I'm always optimistic that we're going to make progress," Dominguez said, adding that he expects the global shipping industry to continue moving forward on the path of green transformation. ■