Secretary-General Urges Implementation of Maritime Conventions, on World Day

 

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message for World Maritime Day, to be observed 25 September:

At a time when the world is beset by conflict and crisis, it is easy to forget that, day in and day out, the international shipping industry works quietly and efficiently to keep the wheels of global trade in motion and ensure the timely delivery of the goods and commodities on which we all rely.

For more than 50 years, international conventions developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have made global shipping progressively safer, more secure and more environment-friendly.  There are more than 50 in all.  Collectively, they are aimed at strengthening maritime safety and security, protecting the marine environment, mitigating the negative effects of accidents or establishing regulations covering liability and compensation for damage.

The real value of those conventions can be fully realized only if they are properly implemented.  This entails early entry into force, broad participation, effective policies and programmes, stringent oversight and vigorous enforcement.  Shipping States, coastal States and the shipping industry itself all have a part to play.

On World Maritime Day, let us recall the often unheralded but always vital contribution by international shipping to peoples and communities all over the world.  I urge all concerned to strengthen their efforts to achieve the full and effective implementation of all IMO conventions.

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For information media • not an official record