In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic affected all around the globe. As the most secure, productive and cost-effective way of transporting goods globally, the global crisis has shown the value of shipping.

Shipping remains the global economy 's leading facilitator, bearing more than 80 percent of global trade, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said.

The role of sustainable shipping will be highlighted during an IMO-hosted online event on 24 September. At a separate event held on the margins of the UN General Assembly on World Maritime Day, Mr. Lim will highlight the important role of shipping and put a spotlight on the humanitarian crisis faced by seafarers who are stranded at sea due to the spread of the virus.

Governments, organisations, businesses and training institutions, as well as individuals, are encouraged to let the IMO know how World Maritime Day is being celebrated and to highlight initiatives undertaken or planned in their country, organization or other agency to support the Sustainable Development Goals.

"Seafarers: at the heart of the future of shipping" is the world maritime theme for 2021, reflecting a strong need to raise awareness of the essential role of seafarers in world trade and increase their visibility.

IMO is a specialist organization of the United Nations responsible for shipping safety and protection and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.

Maritime Business World