A regional workshop on key IMO liability and compensation conventions was convened in Alexandria, Egypt, from 7-11 December bringing together maritime administrations and port authorities from across the Arab region to enhance understanding and effective implementation of the international legal framework governing maritime claims, pollution damage and related compensation regimes.
Hosted by the Maritime Transport & Logistics Sector of Egypt, the workshop was delivered under IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) and organized in close cooperation with IMO Regional Presence Office for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The event was sponsored by Eldib Pandi Company.
Participants from nine Arab States attended the five-day programme, alongside a national delegation from Egypt representing the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety, port authorities, the Environmental Affairs Agency and the National Navigation Company. The activity aimed to strengthen national capacities and promote consistent implementation of the liability and compensation framework across the region.
The workshop was facilitated by IMO and international experts, including representatives of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds) and the International Group of P&I Clubs. Through a combination of presentations, discussions and practical case studies, the programme covered the principal conventions forming the global regime for maritime liability and compensation, including:
• The International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC)
• The International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS)
• The Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (LLMC)
• The Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage
• The Nairobi International Convention on the Removal of Wrecks
and other relevant instruments.
Participants examined the scope, application and enforcement mechanisms of these conventions, as well as the roles of ship-owners, insurers and compensation funds. The workshop emphasized the importance of building robust national legal frameworks and strengthening regional cooperation to support effective implementation.
To complement the technical sessions, a field visit to Alexandria Port was organized on the final day. Delegates received briefings on ongoing development projects, toured operational and logistical facilities and observed a practical demonstration of the port’s marine pollution response capabilities. The visit provided participants with insight into Egypt’s efforts to modernize its port infrastructure and enhance environmental protection measures.

Egypt’s hosting of this regional workshop highlights the commitment of the Maritime Transport & Logistics Sector to strengthening Arab and international cooperation in maritime safety and liability, while supporting efforts to develop skilled Arab professionals capable of engaging effectively with international maritime legislation. The event also reinforces Egypt’s position as a leading regional hub for maritime transport and specialized capacity-building activities.