Minister of Foreign Affairs Visits Vanuatu International Shipping Registry in New York, Affirms Strong Government Support

New York, September 22, 2025 - The Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade, the Honourable Marc Ati, paid an official visit to the headquarters of the Vanuatu International Shipping Registry (VISR) in Broadway, New York. The visit marked an important demonstration of the Government's commitment to the maritime sector, which continues to play a central role in the nation's international presence and economic development.

The Minister was warmly received by the Maritime Administrator, Mr. Saade Makhlouf, who guided him on a full tour of the Registry's offices. Hon. Ati met with the heads of departments and was introduced to the staff responsible for daily operations. This allowed the Minister to gain first-hand appreciation of the professionalism, expertise, and international scope of the Registry's work.

During the visit, Mr. Makhlouf delivered a comprehensive briefing on the ongoing reforms and modernization programs being implemented under his leadership. These reforms include the strengthening of compliance and safety systems, the digital transformation of core services, and the introduction of new technologies designed to provide shipowners and operators with efficient, reliable, and transparent service. He also highlighted the Registry's contribution to Vanuatu's reputation as a responsible flag State and its growing competitiveness in the global shipping industry.

The Minister was also informed of the challenges currently facing the maritime sector, including pressures from international regulatory frameworks and the need for constant innovation to meet evolving standards. Mr. Makhlouf emphasized that while challenges exist, the VISR is taking proactive steps to ensure that Vanuatu remains resilient, credible, and forward-looking in its maritime governance.

In his remarks, Hon. Marc Ati praised the dedication and vision of the VISR team, noting that the Registry has become one of Vanuatu's most visible and respected international institutions. He reaffirmed that the Government of Vanuatu fully supports the Registry's reform agenda, assuring the Maritime Administrator and his staff that the Registry can count on the Government's backing as it continues to expand and strengthen its services.

"The Vanuatu International Shipping Registry is not only a key revenue stream for our nation but also a symbol of our presence and responsibility on the international stage," Minister Ati stated. "The Government will continue to stand firmly behind the Registry as it undertakes the vital reforms needed to secure its place among the leading registries of the world."

Adding to this, Maritime Administrator Saade Makhlouf underlined the importance of the Government's role in enabling reform:

"The Government, under the leadership of the Right Honorable Jotham Napat, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu, has demonstrated strong and consistent support for reforming this sector. The recent amendments to the Maritime Act have put Vanuatu firmly on the right track to modernize its maritime administration. With these reforms, we are building a modern, transparent, and credible registry that can compete internationally and serve the long-term interests of the country."

The visit concluded with a strong sense of optimism, as both the Government and the Registry reaffirmed their shared commitment to building a maritime sector that upholds the highest standards of safety, compliance, and service while contributing to the sustainable development of Vanuatu.