Norton Rose Fulbright’s Christine Ezcutari appointed president of the High Council of the Merchant Navy

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright’s Head of Shipping, Christine Ezcutari has been appointed president of the Conseil supérieur de la marine marchande (CSMM), or the High Council of the Merchant Navy.

The CSMM, a dedicated maritime entity of the French government, is consulted on draft laws and decrees relating to the Merchant Navy or maritime ports and gives its opinion on questions relating to the Merchant Navy, the maritime sector and port activities. It also provides advice on proposals for European legislation. It is made up of the elected president plus 39 other members with maritime law and economy specialisms.

Christine has been a serving member of the council since July 2016 and her appointment as President was made by decree of the French Minister for the Sea on 14th May 2022.

Farmida Bi, Norton Rose Fulbright’s Global Chair said, ‘We are delighted that Christine will continue to bring her considerable experience in maritime to these important matters of the French Republic and to the industry.’

Christine Ezcutari said “I am honoured by this appointment and look forward to working with my co-members to deliver considered and timely support on key matters of the Merchant Navy, ports and the maritime sector more generally.’

Christine is a ship finance partner based in Norton Rose Fulbright’s Paris office. Along with her global shipping role she is also Global Co-Head of Transport and is a member of the firm’s supervisory board.