Supporting the Polar Code

The Representatives,

Welcoming the development of the draft International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (“Polar Code”) by the International Maritime Organization (“IMO”);

Recognising that the IMO is the competent organisation to deal with shipping regulations;

Noting the progress of the important work on the Polar Code and the need for its completion to remain a priority;

Recalling Resolution 3 (1998) and Resolution 8 (2009);

Recognising the benefits of having a Polar Code pertaining to ship safety and environmental protection;

Recommend that their Governments:

1. encourage IMO Member States to continue as a matter of priority the important work of finalising the Polar Code pertaining to ship safety and environmental protection; and

2. further encourage IMO Member States to consider additional safety and environmental protection matters in a second step, as to be determined by the IMO.