Dozens of seaports across Asia, Oceania, Middle East, Africa, Europe and Americas have pledged to remain open to merchant vessels to ensure the flow of essential goods throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
To date, more than 50 port authorities have signed on to support the Port Authorities Roundtable (PAR) COVID-19 declaration, initiated by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore for ports to commit to staying open to merchant vessels and work together to share best practices in ensuring that port operations can remain undisrupted.
“Now is the time, more than ever, for global supply chains to remain intact. This is critical for the flow of essential goods across the globe, and for global economic recovery,” said Singapore's Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health, Dr. Lam Pin Min, during the second PAR COVID-19 declaration video conference Friday
The declaration is also supported by international organizations and groups such as the International Maritime Organization, International Chamber of Shipping, International Association of Ports and Harbors, APEC Port Services Network and American Association of Port Authorities, Italian Port Association and Maritime NZ.