The Network of Women of the Maritime Authorities of Latin America (Red MAMLa) extends its congratulations to the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, following the IMO Council’s decision to extend his mandate for a second four-year term, until 31 December 2031.

The decision was announced on 4 November 2026, during the Council’s 138th session, held from 2 to 6 November at IMO Headquarters in London, United Kingdom. On behalf of Council Members, Council Chair Mr. Victor Jimenez (Spain) congratulated the Secretary-General.

A national of Panama, Arsenio Dominguez assumed office as IMO Secretary-General on 1 January 2024, becoming the first Latin American to hold the Organization’s highest executive position. His professional career, spanning more than three decades in the maritime sector, includes technical, diplomatic and international leadership responsibilities.

Expressing his gratitude for the Council’s decision, the Secretary-General stated: “I am deeply grateful to the Members of the Council and all Members of the Organization for their continued trust and support.”

He also reaffirmed his commitment to contributing to collective efforts in support of global shipping and seafarers.

For Red MAMLa, a network established within the framework of IMO’s Women in Maritime Programme, this endorsement provides a special opportunity to recognize the career and contributions of a Latin American maritime professional leading the United Nations specialized agency responsible for the safety and security of international shipping and the prevention of pollution from ships.

Red MAMLa extends its congratulations to Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and wishes him continued success in his leadership, reaffirming its commitment to cooperation, capacity-building and women’s participation in the maritime sector.

The Council’s decision, covering a second term from 1 January 2028 to 31 December 2031, will be submitted for approval by the IMO Assembly during its 2027 session.