The Arab transport ministers have pledged their strong support to the UAE's candidacy for the Executive Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) under the category "B".

This came during the 30th session of the Arab Transport Ministers Council, held today in Alexandria, Egypt.

The UAE delegation was headed by Abdullah Salem Alkathiri, Director General of the Federal Land and Maritime Transport Authority.

Alkathiri said the UAE is fast becoming an influential player on the global maritime stage, hosting 20 of the world’s leading ports and operating a total of 77 ports that are considered vital by important markets such as the United States and Europe.