Maritime Minister Keir Mather has written to the International Maritime Organization on World Maritime Day

Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity – that’s the theme for this year’s World Maritime Day.

It’s a subject that aligns with the vision of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), which is marking World Maritime Day by reiterating the UK’s commitment to maritime safety, security and environmental protection.

Over the last year the UK Government has been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability across the maritime sector.

For the MCA, work has continued to support the seafarers of tomorrow through modernising cadet training, updating services and prioritising welfare, as well as embracing areas of technological development including search and rescue, counter pollution response, autonomous shipping, and advancements in green shipping and alternative marine fuels.

Looking ahead, the MCA will continue its work unlocking solutions to protect our ocean and seafarers, including the launch of the UK Maritime Innovation Hub, and supporting innovative, green projects allocated funding as part of the Government’s UKSHORE programme.

Maritime Minister Keir Mather has written to Secretary-General Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco to congratulate the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on World Maritime Day, which was first celebrated in 1978.

The letter was also an opportunity to outline the UK’s ongoing dedication to the IMO’s global work and strategy. This includes reaching net zero by or around 2050.

MCA Chief Executive Virginia McVea said:

“The theme for World Maritime Day 2025 asks us to reflect on the ocean’s vital role in the world economy and recognise the central role shipping has in the protection of the marine environment.

“At the MCA we are reaffirming our commitment to protecting lives, advancing maritime technologies, and preventing pollution across our seas. We continue to honour the unwavering commitment of seafarers who are the driving force behind global trade every day.”

World Maritime Day is celebrated annually and is used to focus attention on the importance of shipping safety, security and the marine environment.  It also emphasises a particular aspect of the IMO’s work each year.

The Red Ensign and IMO flag will fly at the MCA headquarters in Southampton, and the building will be lit up blue in honour of World Maritime Day.