The role of sailing and each sailor is unique for the sustainable economic development of Georgia, for the strengthening of our country as a whole, said the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, during his speech at the event held on the occasion of the International Day of the Seafarer.

According to the Prime Minister, international shipping plays an irreplaceable role in the world economy.

“I congratulate the Georgian sailors present here today and those who are in distant sailing on the International Day of the Seafarer. International shipping naturally plays an indispensable role in the world economy. Also unique is the role of sailing and each sailor in the sustainable economic development of Georgia and the strengthening of our country as a whole. This mission is particularly clear today when the key importance of our country in the process of forming a new global order is even more apparent. The Middle Corridor, the shortest route connecting Europe and Asia, passes through Georgia today. The growing strategic importance of our country for the stability and development of the region clearly emphasizes the special importance of your professionalism and daily routine. As a result of this work, Georgia became a leading maritime country in the Black Sea region. Today, the number of Georgian sailors on ships flying the flag of our country and 74 other states of the world exceeds 18,000, and this number is increasing annually. The authority of the state flag of Georgia in the international shipping industry is also growing,” said Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Prime Minister went on to say that the government of Georgia has taken steps to value mariners, to develop and strengthen the maritime sector, and to make the nautical sector a safer workplace.

“This process continues. Very soon, from the first of July, the law “On the labour of sailors” will enter into force to regulate the issues related to the labour and social conditions of mariners and safety further. The state will be able to more effectively protect the rights and interests of our mariners employed on ships flying the flag of Georgia or any other state. On behalf of the Government of Georgia and myself, I thank you for your professionalism and patriotism. I once again congratulate you on the International Day of Seafarers and wish you further success”, said the Prime Minister.