20 Port authorities pledge to keep seaborne trade moving

The 20 member ports of the Port Authorities Roundtable came together virtually last week to pledge that merchant ships can continue to berth and carry out cargo operations; best practises are adopted according to national circumstances; and port authorities continue to share experiences in combating COVID-19.

The declaration was signed by ports in Asia, Europe, Middle East and North America, in a move initiated by Singapore.

Representing the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) chief executive Quah Ley Hoon said: “As the world battles with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has never been more critical to keep our ports open and goods moving. Shipping is chartering into many unknowns and new challenges. Port authorities have to take enhanced precautions for their ports and on ships, as well as manage the stress faced by our seafarers and maritime personnel.

“We have come together to make a declaration of our commitment, exchange experiences and share best practices. This virtual declaration by members countries across different geographical regions is also a first for the PAR. We came out of the session gaining more valuable knowledge to ensure that necessities and essential medical supplies continue to be transported seamlessly across the world and into our respective countries.”

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Annex: List of 20 PAR members who signed the declaration