ICS urges UN action to protect freedom of navigation as Cyprus highlights seafarers’ rights
ICS secretary general Thomas Kazakos called for secure commercial shipping routes at the UN, while Cyprus promoted seafarer protections and maritime cooperation in Athens.
New York, United States. International Chamber of Shipping secretary general Thomas Kazakos urged the UN Security Council to safeguard freedom of navigation, warning that commercial ships and seafarers must not become collateral in geopolitical disputes.
UN maritime security briefing
Kazakos addressed an Arria-Formula meeting convened by Bahrain and chaired by Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani. Discussions focused on the deteriorating maritime security environment, particularly in the Persian Gulf.
Representing the international shipping industry, Kazakos said the rules governing international waterways should not change according to political circumstances.
“The ability of commercial ships to navigate international waterways safely, predictably and without unnecessary impediment, is crucial to international maritime law and to the global trade system. Shipping must not be held to ransom,” he said.
Cyprus at maritime events in Athens
Athens, Greece. Cyprus also highlighted seafarers’ rights, shipping’s social role and the competitiveness of the European fleet during a three-day maritime programme.
Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis addressed an international symposium marking the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, arguing that seafarer protection could not be treated separately from broader changes affecting global shipping.
The convention, adopted in Geneva on February 23, 2006, established a single international framework for seafarers’ rights. It sets minimum standards for working and living conditions, medical care, social protection, repatriation and other basic employment rights.
Cyprus participated in negotiations leading to the convention’s adoption and became the 29th country worldwide and ninth EU member state to ratify it in 2012.
Cyprus-Greece maritime cooperation
Cyprus and Greece reaffirmed shared maritime priorities at a dinner hosted by the Cyprus Union of Shipowners in honour of President Nikos Christodoulides in Athens on September 18.
Held at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel during the CUS annual general meeting, the dinner brought together senior political and government representatives from both countries, European officials, diplomats and shipowners.
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