The prestigious International Maritime Prize for 2004 has been presented to Mr. Luis Martínez of Mexico, who has spent a lifetime in high profile positions in the maritime sector and is currently a fishing vessel owner. Mr. Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, presented the prize to Mr. Martínez during a special ceremony (on Thursday, 17 November) at IMO’s London Headquarters during the Organization’s 23rd Extraordinary Council session, which precedes the Organization’s 24th Assembly, to be held from 21 November to 2 December. The International Maritime Prize is awarded annually by IMO to the individual or organization judged to have made the most significant contribution to the work and objectives of IMO.