The Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, Thomas A. Kazakos, has issued a statement deploring the unacceptable dangers facing “seafarers who make global trade possible.”
“Today marks five months since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, “ he stated Tuesday. “Meanwhile, in the Black Sea we are seeing an alarming rise in the attacks on international shipping. The consequences of these events for the maritime industry and global trade continue to unfold.
“The pressure on shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz, Black Sea and the Red Sea has highlighted the vulnerability of the global maritime network and the risks faced by those who keep it moving. During this period, seafarers have been operating in an environment of heightened uncertainty, with some sustaining injuries and tragically losing their lives while carrying out their work at sea.
“These events are a stark reminder that freedom of navigation is not an abstract principle. It is a fundamental part of a system that allows ships to trade safely, enables essential goods and energy supplies to move, and supports economies and communities around the world. Any imposition of transit charges and tolls on international shipping will seriously disrupt the long established and well operated world trade supply system which is already strained by recent geopolitical instability.
“More than 90% of global trade is carried by the sea. When maritime routes come under pressure the effects are felt far and beyond. But, for the men and women at sea, the impact of conflict is immediate and personal. They are the people on the bridge, in the engine room, and on deck.
“Five months on, the international shipping community continues to stand for the protection of seafarers, respect for international law, and the preservation of safe and free passage for commercial vessels. Freedom of navigation is not negotiable. Neither Is the safety of the seafarers who make global trade possible.”
(IMO seafarer photo)