The Asian Shipowners’ Association  welcomes the signing of the Memorandum between the United States and Iran aimed at ending hostilities and reducing tensions in the Gulf region.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes and is vital to Asia’s energy security, trade, and economic stability.  The cessation of hostilities is an important step toward restoring confidence in maritime transportation, and it is indispensable that the freedom and safety of navigation be ensured in accordance with international law beyond the guaranteed period of 60 days.

The ASA urges the governments concerned and the international community to take prompt action to clear any remaining maritime hazards and facilitate the safe and orderly movement of vessels currently operating in the Persian Gulf.  Throughout this process, the welfare and safety of seafarers should remain a priority.

 The ASA sincerely hopes that constructive dialogues between the United States and Iran will make steady progress and that the Memorandum will be faithfully implemented.  Such progress is essential to ensuring a peaceful and open sea and enabling the shipping industry to continue supporting global trade safely and efficiently.