Haikou Maritime Court hosted a lecture on the law of the sea on 2 July, aiming to deepen the staff’s understanding of both domestic and international maritime laws, expand their global perspective, and enhance their proficiency in foreign-related maritime trials. The lecture was delivered by Professor Zhao Yongchen, who holds a doctorate in law from Peking University, serves as a Distinguished Professor at Hainan University, and has previously been an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Grenada. Luo Chun, Vice President and member of the Leading Party Members’ Group, presided over the lecture attended by the entire court leadership and officials.

Drawing on his extensive legal expertise and professional experience, Professor Zhao delved into the subject under the title “Australia’s Law of the Sea and Its Implications for China”. He thoroughly and systematically explained Australia’s law of the sea, covering its legislative system, marine legal framework, maritime law enforcement, marine environmental protection, jurisdiction, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Building on this, he offered a profound analysis of its significance for China in advancing the construction of a robust maritime nation. The detailed and insightful lecture significantly inspired the court staff. It enhanced their understanding of maritime law and promoted its integration into their maritime adjudication practices.

The attendees eagerly absorbed the information and engaged in deep thinking. During the interactive session, they seized the opportunity to ask questions. “What are Australia’s institutional provisions for handling public interest litigation concerning compensation for marine ecological damage?” “What strategies can China employ in maritime justice and diplomacy to safeguard its national sovereignty and maritime interests?” “In Australia, do federal or state courts have jurisdiction over marine pollution liability cases, and what criteria determine this jurisdiction?” Professor Zhao responded to each question raised by the judges in detailed, thorough answers. Participants shared that the lecture, which focused on marine legal knowledge from an international perspective, would help the maritime court conduct more targeted trial work. They reported gaining significant insights.

Over the past few years, Haikou Maritime Court has strived to build a top-tier professional trial team by enhancing their maritime trial capacity through diverse methods, including maritime trial lectures and workshops. Using this lecture as a catalyst, Haikou Maritime Court will familiarize the staff with the concept of a “maritime community of common destiny”, strengthen their commitment to marine ecological protection, and promote proactive maritime jurisdiction. These efforts will support the construction of a strong maritime province, the development of Hainan Free Trade Port, and other key strategies contributing to maritime justice expertise and strength.