The International Maritime Organization (IMO) praised the efforts that Panama has made during the coronavirus health crisis that is affecting the entire world.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said that in these difficult times, the availability of the maritime industry and the ability of seafarers to deliver vital goods, including medical supplies and food, is critical to responding and eventually overcoming the pandemic, therefore, is of the utmost importance that the flow of trade by sea is not interrupted unnecessarily.
He added that the pandemic produced by COVID-19 has presented enormous challenges to the world. The media recognize the heroic efforts made by doctors, nurses, first responders and key personnel in the face of this crisis. Less well known is the memorable work done by seafarers around the world, many of whom have been working under tremendous physical and mental strain to keep the global supply chain from stopping for food, valuable medical supplies and other products reach their destination.