IOPC Funds hosts informal lunch meeting for UK-based representatives of African States.

On 17 July 2024, IOPC Funds’ Director, Mr Gaute Sivertsen, hosted an informal lunch meeting for the UK-based representatives of African States.

The event, which took place at the offices of the IOPC Funds, attracted representatives from nine States, including seven 1992 Fund Member States and two non-Member States.

Mr Sivertsen welcomed attendees and provided a brief overview of the IOPC Funds’ role, for the benefit of attendees who were not familiar with the organisation.

He underscored the important role of Member States both during an incident and in the general management of the IOPC Funds, emphasising the need for timely submission of oil reports and the crucial role that this plays in ensuring the proper functioning of the organisation.

The Director used the opportunity to remind Member States of the need to attend meetings of the governing bodies and to ensure that the Conventions are been correctly implemented into their national legislation. He also encouraged non-Member States considering ratification of the Conventions to apply for observer status, which would enable them to attend meetings and learn more about the important role of the IOPC Funds.

The event provided an excellent opportunity for the Secretariat to engage directly with officials responsible for IOPC Funds’ matters in an informal setting, establishing or reconnecting with London-based focal points, strengthening outreach to Member States and promoting the international liability and compensation regime.

The regional lunch meetings, held about three times in a year, are extremely useful and will continue to be organised. To ensure invitations to such activities are issued to the correct contacts, States are encouraged to inform the Secretariat of any changes in relevant personnel via email at externalrelations@iopcfunds.org.