The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) jointly marked​ the annual Day of Seafarer by organizing a webinar to highlight the important contributions of seafarers as key workers and their response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speakers from International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) called for efforts to implement International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for fishermen (STCW-F) and delivered presentations on Safety of Fishing Vessels and ILO work for fishermen, particularly focusing on Seafarers from Pakistan.

Representatives from provincial fisheries department, NGOs, universities, research organizations and fishermen societies attended the webinar.

Seafarers are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, playing an essential role in maintaining the flow of vital goods, such as food, medicines and medical supplies. However, the crisis has led to difficult working conditions for seafarers, including uncertainties and difficulties about port access, re-supply, crew changeovers and repatriation. This year also marks the 10^th anniversary of the annual Day of Seafarer.