The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and its global network of national member associations and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in view of Labour Day, are calling on its Members across the world to sound their ships’ horns when in port at 12.00 local time, on International Workers’ Day on 1 May 2020. Prior to engaging in blowing the horns ships will ensure that appropriate clearance is sought where required.

With this gesture of solidarity, the International Shipping Community aims to recognise the seafarers across the world, the “unsung heroes” of global trade, who are keeping countries supplied with food, fuel and important supplies such as vital medical equipment not only through the Covid-19 pandemic, but every day.

The Cyprus Shipping Chamber, as an active member of the International Chamber of Shipping for the last 27 years and wishing to show in practice its appreciation to the 1.6 million seafarers worldwide that keep world trade moving, supports this initiative with the positive response of its Member-Companies.

According to the Shipping Chamber’s President, Mr. Philippos Philis, “Seafarers’ contribution in transporting world trade is undoubtedly vital, especially in a time of a global crisis. It is thus worthwhile to be recognised through this symbolic “applause” of a global sounding of the ships’ horns. It is also important to identify, the soonest possible, viable solutions on crew changes issues and to safeguard access to healthcare on shore to our seafarers in service.”