Safmarine calls for international response to piracy

Safmarine has called for an international response to piracy in the Gulf of Aden. “It poses a threat to one of the most important international trade lanes – it is an international security problem that requires an international response,” according to a statement from the line. “This is an issue that we are taking very seriously and our main concern is of course the safety of the crews on our vessels. “But it is important to understand that this is not only a problem for us and the shipping industry, but a problem for the entire international community.” The line has issued security guidelines, which are regularly updated. “We have also instructed our crews to use the safest routes possible when navigating through the Gulf of Aden. This information is also regularly updated to take any new risks into account.” The majority of Safmarine’s operations however involve container ships, which are not high-risk targets because of the speed with which they sail.