Prime Minister Sherif Ismail on Saturday congratulated the Egyptian people on Egypt's election to the membership of the executive board of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for 2016 and 2017.

Of all 154 votes, Egypt ranked seventh with 130 votes, after Singapore, Turkey, Malta, Australia, Cyprus and Peru.

Cabinet spokesman Hossam Qawish said in a statement that the prime minister lauded the win of the membership, attributing it to the political leadership and successful efforts of the Egyptian diplomacy.

Egypt's return to the international bodies constitutes restoration of its effective and influential role, Ismail said. 

The 29th Assembly of IMO is meeting in London at IMO Headquarters from November 23 to December 2.

All 171 Member States and three Associate Members are entitled to attend the Assembly, which is IMO’s highest governing body. 

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Saad el Gioushi said that the maritime transport industry in Egypt will see a quantum leap during the coming period, which will contribute to making this sector one of the main foundations of the national economy. 

This came on his return from the meetings in London on Saturday night. 

Source: MENA