The Turkish Shipowners’ Association has followed with profound concern the increasing attacks in the Black Sea, which have claimed the lives of seafarers while they were carrying out their professional duties.
Seafarers, regardless of their nationality, flag, or employer, are the unsung heroes of international maritime trade, serving with great dedication to ensure the uninterrupted flow of global commerce. No seafarer should ever become a target of armed conflict while earning a living, and no family should have to lose a loved one as a result of attacks carried out during the course of their professional duties.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, loved ones, and the entire shipping community of all seafarers who have lost their lives, and wish a speedy recovery to those who have been injured.
As the Turkish Shipowners’ Association, we strongly condemn all attacks carried out by both Russia and Ukraine that endanger the lives of civilian seafarers and target merchant vessels. The protection of merchant ships and seafarers in accordance with the fundamental principles of international law and the law of the sea is indispensable not only for the maritime industry but also for the safety and sustainability of global trade.
In the face of these tragic events, we believe it is of utmost importance that the global maritime community, international maritime organizations, relevant international institutions, and all stakeholders adopt a united and resolute stance in openly condemning these attacks, while urgently taking concrete and effective measures to ensure the safety and security of merchant vessels and seafarers.
The seas must remain a domain of commerce, cooperation, and peace—not conflict. Merchant ships and the dedicated seafarers who operate them must be able to carry out their duties safely and securely under all circumstances.
Turkish Shipowners’ Association
