The IMO has been closely monitoring the incident involving the MV Ever Given, which ran aground in the Suez Canal on 23 March 2021.

IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said:

“I offer my encouragement  to the Egyptian Authorities, as well as the salvors, tug and dredger operators and all other parties, who are working tirelessly to safely re-float the ship and resume transit through one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes as soon as possible. I appreciate the efforts of every individual involved.

I am aware of the implications of the temporary closure of the canal, and I ask for patience from stakeholders across the supply chain as everyone works to ensure that the ship, its crew, its cargo and the environment remain protected.

I look forward to receiving information from the investigation into the incident so that IMO can act on any appropriate recommendations derived from the findings.”