On the day of the seafarer, we recognize the millions of seafares around the world who keep global trade moving every single day.

Behind everything we rely on, from food, fuel, medicine, and everyday goods, are people working at sea, often far from home and family.

This year’s theme, caring the world trade, carrying the risks, feels specially significant. Across the world, too many seafarers are sailing through areas affected by conflict in geopolitical tension.

Many face long periods at sea, uncertainty about when they will return home, limited communications with their families, all while operating in dangerous waters.

Seafarers should never become victims of wider geopolitical conflict.

Whether in the Red Sea, the Black Sea, the Straight of Hormuz, or other challenging regions, we must remember that every ship carries more than cargo. It carries people. People with families waiting for them at home, spending long months at sea, isolation, fatigue, and the stress of operating in unpredictable conditions while continuing to deliver the goods, energy, and supplies that the whole world rely upon.

To all seafarers, thank you. It may not always seem like that, but let me reiterate that your safety and welfare remain our highest priority.

And today, I invite seafarers everywhere to share your experiences, the realities of life at sea, the challenges you face, and the moments that define your work.

Join the conversation using #DayoOfTheSeafer.

To everyone else, take a moment today to recognize the people behind global trade, the seafarers who keep the world moving.