Netherlands Signs Wreck Removal Convention

The Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention was adopted in May 2007 and will provide the legal basis for States to remove, or have removed, shipwrecks that may have the potential to affect adversely the safety of lives, goods and property at sea, as well as the marine environment.

The Convention is open for signature until 18 November 2008 and, thereafter, will be open for ratification, accession or acceptance. It will enter into force twelve months following the date on which ten States have either signed it without reservation as to ratification, acceptance or approval or have deposited instruments of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession with IMO.

The Ambassador of The Netherlands to the , His Excellency Mr. P. W. Waldeck, signed the Convention on behalf of his country at IMO Headquarters in on Monday, 27 October, 2008.