The Republic of San Marino has appointed Admiral Giampaolo Bensaia as the new Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), after the country established its new international shipping registry in 2021. On November 9th, Admiral Bensaia has been introduced by Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Luca Beccari to the Most Excellent Captains Regent for the swearing-in ceremony.

Admiral Bensaia worked as the Maritime Attaché at the Italian Embassy in London from 2016 to 2019, as well as Alternate Representative to the IMO, IMSO and IOPC funds. In his 36 years as an Officer in the Italian Coast Guard, he worked on safety of navigation, marine environment, SAR, piracy, international maritime law, and as an international cooperation expert on European projects for port and maritime administrations.

“I am honoured to represent the Republic of San Marino to the IMO and look forward to introducing the newly established shipping registry to the global maritime network.” 

Giampaolo Bensaia, San Marino Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation

“The appointment of Admiral Bensaia as Permanent Representative to the IMO is a milestone towards making San Marino a destination of choice for the maritime sector”. 

Dr. Loris Francini, Transport Delegate, State Secretariat for Finances and Budget.