Joint open letter from maritime industry representatives to UN Secretary-General António Guterres
The seizure of the MSC ARIES by Iranian forces has prompted international industry associations and maritime stakeholders to express serious concern and call on the community to take action.
“Shipping is a resilient industry that has always ensured trade even in times of great challenge and difficult circumstances. However, the recent capture of the MSC ARIES highlights the urgent need to protect seafarers and ensure the safe transit of ships,” the letter, which was signed by a number of influential organizations, such as the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), of which our Trade Union is a part, says; The International Federation of Seafarers' Associations (IFSMA), the Vice President of which is the MTWTU Chairman Oleg Grygoriuk; Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO); European Community Shipowners' Association (ECSA); International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (INTERTANKO); International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and others.
In light of the ongoing changes and the continuing serious threat in the region, the signatories called for increased coordinated military presence, missions and patrols to protect seafarers from any possible aggression.
The international industry associations also ask the Secretary to draw the attention of all Member States to their responsibilities under international law and to make every effort to release the seafarers and protect the safe transit of ships.
