International Maritime Organization convenes Latin American maritime leaders in Guatemala

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) hosted the first Joint Meeting of Directors and Heads of Latin American Maritime Administrations, dubbed Damla 1, in Guatemala City. The event, organized with the Government of Guatemala and the Central American Commission of Maritime Transport (Cocatram), brought together senior officials from across the region to strengthen dialogue, identify priorities and expand cooperation in the maritime sector.

IMO Secretary‑General Arsenio Domínguez stressed the UN agency’s commitment to providing technical cooperation tailored to regional needs, aiming to build stronger institutional capacities, promote inclusive leadership, gender equality and effective governance. Delegates are expected to conclude the meeting with a common roadmap for deeper regional maritime cooperation.