BERNARD

The Shipping Association of Jamaica joins with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in observing Maritime Awareness Week, under the theme 'Strategic Cooperation: The Way Forward For The Shipping Industry'.

During this week, we seek to heighten the public's awareness about the important work of the maritime sector while strengthening valuable partnerships.

This year's IMO theme not only underscores the direction in which our local industry must proceed for growth and development in a more 'globalised' world, but it also vindicates the approach that the Shipping Association of Jamaica has taken in promoting greater cooperation among all involved in the industry - whether directly or indirectly. This is a time of opportunity for us because the Caribbean, and Jamaica in particular, is strategically located to benefit from the expansion of trade.

The vision

Going hand in hand with our efforts at modernising the maritime industry in Jamaica is the need for all the players in the sector to work toward the shared vision of making the Port of Kingston one of the world's 'Top Ten'.

We are confident in the future of our shipping industry because the achievements of our maritime sector are rooted in the strong collaborative relationship shared among all the partners in shipping.

These are the kinds of partnerships that give our industry its vibrancy. The SAJ will continue working with our partners to serve the needs of our members as we position Jamaica as the trade hub of the Caribbean.

Michael Bernard

President of the Shipping

Association of Jamaica