World Maritime Day: Commissioner Vălean calls for support and safe return of seafarers

On the occasion of today’s World Maritime Day, Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, issued a statement, emphasising the importance of seafarers and calling for their support. The Commissioner said: “300,000 seafarers remain stranded on their ships due to travel restrictions and administrative barriers. They are unable to return home and take a break after many months of uninterrupted work, even though this is their right under international law. With support from the EU, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted, on 21 September, a resolution urging States to support repatriations of seafarers and give them access to medical care. I call on all States to implement the IMO resolution and swiftly lift restrictions for crew changes and recall the duty of shipowners to help seafarers return home to their families.” The full statement is available online.