International Maritime Organization (IMO) has postponed two meetings due to be held in the next few weeks in light of the growing seriousness of the global coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak
At present the following meetings are postponed:
IMO said it will continue to monitor all developments related to Covid-19 and will advise as soon as possible on the future postponement and rescheduling of meetings to ensure attendees can make appropriate arrangements.
Earlier this week, the annual Transpacific Maritime Conference in California was cancelled just before it was due to start.
The decision to postpone the meetings takes into account the UK’s decision this week to move towards the delay phase of its coronavirus action plan issued by the Department of Health & Social Care. The aim of this phase is to slow the spread of the virus, reducing the impact and pushing it away from the winter season.
It is increasingly difficult for delegates from IMO member states travelling from abroad to attend IMO meetings. Other UN agencies have adopted similar actions.
IMO member states have been advised by circular letter and email to diplomatic contact points.
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