Michael Khouri has been named the permanent chairman of the US Federal Maritime Commission.

President Donald Trump announced the move Thursday, promoting Khouri to the post that he had been holding in an acting role for the last two years.

"I thank President Trump for his expression of confidence. I believe it reflects support for the great work that the entire [Federal Maritime Commission] team is doing to ensure fair competition and integrity for America’s ocean supply chain," Khouri said in a statement.