Liberia addressed the International Maritime Organization's 138th Council Session in London, highlighting its significant maritime registry and the need to protect seafarers. As a major flag state, Liberia emphasized that attacks on shipping lanes directly affect its interests. Maritime Commissioner Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr. argued that seafarers are civilians and should not be collateral damage in conflicts. He cited seven areas of concern, including the Black Sea and Strait of Hormuz.
The Liberian government renewed its call for protecting seafarers and preserving freedom of navigation amid growing security threats. Commissioner Lighe expressed concern over attacks on commercial vessels in several regions, including the Arabian Sea and Red Sea. These attacks have endangered seafarers, damaged vessels, disrupted international trade, and resulted in human losses. Liberia's statement emphasized that seafarers are innocent civilians performing legitimate duties essential to international trade and the global economy.
Liberia extended its condolences to the families of seafarers killed in these attacks, stressing that maritime professionals must not become casualties of geopolitical conflicts. The statement reaffirmed the importance of respecting freedom of navigation and the right of innocent passage, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Liberia urged all parties to guarantee the safety, security, dignity, and humane treatment of maritime workers.
The Liberian statement called on parties involved in conflicts to exercise restraint, cease hostilities, and pursue dialogue and diplomacy. Continuing hostilities are inflicting human suffering, threatening international peace, disrupting global supply chains, and imposing severe economic consequences, particularly on developing economies. Liberia urged authorities to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels and their crews in accordance with international laws.
Liberia commended IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and other international stakeholders for their efforts to protect seafarers stranded or endangered in conflict zones. The country also appreciated governments, maritime authorities, and institutions that have assisted Liberian-flagged vessels and their crews during maritime security incidents.
The Liberian government emphasized that the seas must remain corridors of peaceful commerce, international cooperation, and human progress. The country's maritime credibility is staked on this appeal, and the international community is watching. The question remains whether warring parties will heed Liberia's call.
Liberia's appeal for peace and protection of seafarers has significant implications for global trade and economies. The country's statement at the IMO Council Session highlights the need for cooperation and diplomacy to address the growing security threats in international shipping routes. The international community must work together to ensure the safety of seafarers and the preservation of freedom of navigation.
Key points
- Liberia urges protection of seafarers and preservation of freedom of navigation amid growing security threats.
- The country's maritime registry is one of the world's largest, making it a significant stakeholder in international shipping.
- Liberia's appeal for peace and restraint has significant implications for global trade and economies.
