Malta Maritime Law Association
Malta Maritime Law Association (MMLA)
During the first six months of this year, the Malta Maritime Law Association (MMLA) actively promoted its objectives by participating in various activities both locally and abroad.
Annual General Meeting
In April, the MMLA held its Annual General Meeting (AGM). During this event, the President and Committee Chairmen updated the members on the progress made over the past year and discussed various initiatives aimed at promoting the interests of its members and the Malta flag. The AGM highlighted the MMLA’s achievements, strengthened relationships with Maltese authorities, and efforts to promote the local shipping industry.
Collaboration with International Maritime Law Institute
In May, a delegation from the Education Subcommittee, led by Dr. Stephan Piazza, met with the Director of the International Maritime Law Institute to explore potential collaborations between the institute and the MMLA.
CMI Colloquium May 2024
The MMLA attended the 2024 CMI (Comité Maritime International) Colloquium in Gothenburg from May 22-24. The event, organized by the Swedish Maritime Law Association, featured cutting-edge presentations and discussions on topics such as judicial sales of vessels, decarbonization, and piracy. The MMLA delegation included President Dr. Matthew Attard, Secretary Dr. Lisa Camilleri, and Treasurer Dr. Adrian Attard, among others.
Malta Maritime Forum Annual General Meeting
Dr. Matthew Attard and Dr. Stephan Piazza attended the Malta Maritime Forum’s Annual General Meeting in May. The Forum, a non-governmental organization, serves as a platform for Malta-based entities involved in the maritime, logistical, and transport sectors, facilitating communication between these sectors and the government. Dr. Attard is a board member of the Forum in his capacity as MMLA representative.
Promotion of the Yachting Industry
This year, the Yachting Subcommittee actively participated in the consultation process leading to the launch of the new Small Code for Commercial Yachts and discussions on the implementation of the Super Yacht Policy. Additionally, the MMLA engaged in promoting the shipping industry through dialogue with stakeholders and maritime authorities, submitting proposals for amendments to the Merchant Shipping Act and the Code of Organisation and Civil Procedure.
Attendance at RISC 2024 Conference
On March 22, MMLA President Dr. Matthew Attard presented at the Registry Information Sharing Conference in Malta, discussing the Maltese shipping industry’s due diligence obligations and data collection practices. The conference was attended by representatives from various flag registries and professionals from around the world.
AIJA Seminar “Setting Sails in Turbulent Times”
The MMLA sponsored the AIJA seminar “Setting Sails in Turbulent Times,” held in Valletta from June 13-15. Organized by AIJA’s Transport and International Business Law Commissions, the event addressed challenges in the commerce and transport sectors, covering topics such as pre-contractual stages, due diligence obligations, and the impact of legislation like Supply Chain Acts and the European Green Deal.
MMLA at IMO IMLI Conference
The MMLA attended the IMO IMLI conference celebrating the Institute’s 35th anniversary in Valletta on June 17. The conference, titled “Promoting the Implementation of IMO Objectives through Maritime Legislation,” featured discussions on marine environment, safety and security, decarbonization, and the implementation of international instruments.
2nd Signing Ceremony of the United Nations Convention on the International Effects of Judicial Sales of Ships
On June 19, MMLA President Dr. Matthew Attard attended the 2nd signing ceremony of the United Nations Convention on the International Effects of Judicial Sales of Ships at Verdala Palace in Malta. The event was officiated by Mr. David Nanopoulos from the United Nations, alongside notable dignitaries including H.E. Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of Malta, and Hon. Ian Borg, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta. The Convention was signed by Croatia, Cyprus, Italy, Malta, and Spain, bringing the total number of signatories to 26.
