World Maritime Day being observed today

World Maritime Day 2021 is being observed on Thursday (September) with the theme 'Seafarers at the core of Shipping's Future'.

As per United Nations (UN), this year's theme reflects a clear need to raise awareness of seafarersʹ crucial role in world trade and increase their visibility.

The day highlights the work of seafarers at the heart of the maritime industry—promoting activities that delve into specific topics relevant to the role of the seafarer in safety, maritime security, environmental protection etc.

“The international shipping industry consists more than 80% of the aggregate global trade among people and communities across the world,” said UN.

“Shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective method of international transportation for most goods; it provides a dependable, low-cost means of transporting goods globally, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples,” it added.

Meanwhile, in a message, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi said that Pakistan is blessed with over 1,000 km coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone.

He said Maritime Sector is the bedrock of Pakistan's economy as 95 percent of our trade is seaborne.  He said Pakistan Navy, being a stakeholder in shaping the maritime thought in the country, is playing its due role in creating the desired maritime awareness and to stimulate exploitations of our immense, though untapped Blue Economy.

He said With CPEC already in motion, maritime activities in Pakistan are increasing manifold.

The Naval Chief suggested that seafarers may be designated as 'key workers' so as to ensure their travel to and from ships without delays.