ISLAMABAD: The Day of the Seafarer is being observed across the globe on Thursday (today).
This year, the Day of the Seafarer campaign calls on sates to recognise seafarers as key workers – and to provide them with the support, assistance and travel options open to all key workers during the pandemic.
Seafarers are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, playing an essential role in maintaining the flow of vital goods, such as food, medicines and medical supplies.
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The campaign seeks to raise awareness of the work achieved by seafarers in response to the pandemic and to thank them for their contribution. The campaign also encourages everyone to treat seafarers with the respect and dignity they deserve so that they can continue to provide their vital services to keep world trade moving.
Pakistan has urged member states of International Maritime Organization (IMO) to declare seafarers as key workers and facilitate their repatriation back to their home countries.
The demand was made by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Ali Haider Zaidi in a message on the eve of International Day of Seafarer being observed on Thursday.
He said Pakistan has already lifted restrictions on international air travel and remains committed to facilitate crew changeovers and repatriation of stranded seafarers to their homes.
The Minister said Pakistani seafarers as part of the global maritime community not only served aboard the vessels flying Pakistan flag but also a large number served on foreign flag vessels.
