Event International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Diplomatic Conference
Venue Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Delegates 430
Date May 11-15



The brief
The purpose of the IMO Diplomatic Conference was to gather worldwide delegates to vote on a new convention.

Challenges
The H1N1 outbreak and economic climate meant attendance met requirements, but was below expectations. “Despite these hurdles, we received strong support from the IMO and it was a great experience for the local shipping industry,” says Roger Tupper, director of Hong Kong’s marine department.

Additional security measures were required because Hong Kong’s chief executive, Donald Tsang, and several high-ranking officials attended the international conference.

Execution
HKCEC was chosen for its experience in hosting high-level government events and its diverse conference facilities. International Conference Consultants won the tender to organise the event logistics.

Visitors from 60 member states attended and many were visiting Hong Kong for the first time. The highlight of the social programme was the final evening. Delegates chose between dinner at Jumbo Kingdom, a private box at Happy Valley Racecourse, or dinner on Harbour Cruise Bauhinia, a vintage triple-deck ferry.

At Jumbo Kingdom, a member of the marine police sat at each table to share knowledge about the local industry and the city. Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong (MEHK) provided a Chinese acrobatic performance and greeted delegates.

During the receptions, MEHK provided interactive calligraphy, paper cutting and flower doll demonstrations as well as a traditional bianlian (changing face) performance.

Comment
Efthimios Mitropoulos, secretary-general, International Maritime Organisation, says: “Thank you to the organisers for inviting us to this vibrant and fascinating city, for the logistical support in the preparation and running of the conference, and for making our stay here very pleasant.”