The MACHC is a Regional Hydrographic Commission (RHC) that supports the activities of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) on a regional basis. The basic activities of the MACHC are conducted by the three primary MACHC Committees, namely:
· MACHC Integrated Chart Committee (MICC)
· Marine Economic Infrastructure Programme (MEIP)
· Capacity Building Committee (CBC)
From the 9th till the 13th of December 2013, the 14th Meeting of the Meso American & Caribbean Sea Hydrographic Commission (MACHC) is taking place in St. Maarten at the Sonesta MaHo Beach Resort & Casino.
At the opening ceremony of the 14th MACHC meeting on the 9th of December 2013, the delegates from the Meso America and Caribbean region were welcomed by the Chair of the MACHC, Mr. M. Amafo LL.M. A special welcome was dedicated to the various regional and international organizations, the industry and stakeholders represented in the meeting. The Chair underlined the importance of Public Private Partnerships in ensuring the sustainability and reliability of surveying and charting in the region. The Chair also emphasized the commitment from the Region to provide adequate hydrographic services for ships navigating in the Caribbean region. On behalf of the IHO, Mr. Robert Ward, President International Hydrographic Bureau, (IHB) in his remarks noted the importance and the purpose of the Regional Hydrographic Commissions who are responsible for the surveying and charting of the navigable waters of the sea. He emphasized that there is a need to improve the in country capabilities across the region. He further noted the importance of capacity building and awareness raising.
In the keynote address the Govenor of St. Maarten, H.E. Mr. Eugene B. Holiday, underscored the importance of Hydrography for sustainable development of the region. He also noted the importance of hydrography for the cruise ship industry and the development of the Blue Economy taking into account existing commitments for protection of the environment.
After his keynote address the Governor declared the meeting for open.