BIMCO Shanghai Centre to open in February under Wei Zhuang

SHIPPING association, the Copenhagen-based Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), is to open its Shanghai Centre office on the February 25 next year, in conjunction with its Senior Leadership Forum, which is being held to further stimulate a mutually beneficial dialogue with the Chinese shipping community.

Wei Zhuang, who has been with the BIMCO Secretariat in Copenhagen for some years, has been promoted to head the new BIMCO Shanghai Centre. Its physical presence in China will enhance communication with its Chinese members and other stakeholders and facilitate timely access to the association's services, including advice on a wide spectrum of issues including operational, legal, technical, security and educational information.

Commenting on the conference, the president of BIMCO, Yudhishthir Khatau, said: "The close and friendly relationship that has existed for many years between the Chinese shipping community and BIMCO, has led us to believe that it would be mutually beneficial to have an exchange of views between us in the form of a Senior Leadership Forum.

"The forum aims to provide a platform for a positive exchange on China's role in the international shipping, not only as a major ship-owning nation but also as a major charterer and what perceived role BIMCO might play in furthering the well-being of Chinese shipping."

Torben Skaanild, secretary general and CEO of BIMCO said: "The establishment of BIMCO Shanghai Centre is a milestone for BIMCO, but a natural development considering the growth in Chinese shipping and the close ties that have existed between the Chinese shipping community and BIMCO for many years."