Global ports have joined together under the banner of Abu Dhabi Ports’ “Horns of Hope” initiative to show support for those engaged on the frontlines with the coronavirus pandemic.
The initiative calls on all ships in harbors around the world to sound their horns in 15-second bursts each evening, in recognition of the efforts of maritime, health care, and critical sector personnel, who are working diligently to ensure their respective communities remain safe and healthy.
Similar efforts have been observed in a number of ports across Europe, such as the Port of Antwerp, Rotterdam, Vauban, Monaco, and Barcelona, in addition to ports in Germany.
In the MENA region, the long list of “Horns of Hope” participants — in addition to Abu Dhabi Ports’ maritime localities — includes Jebel Ali Port, Ajman Port, Jizan Port, Shuaiba Port, as well as Khalifa bin Salman Port in Bahrain. Egypt’s Port of Alexandria, Iraq’s Khor Al-Zubair Port, the Port of Tripoli in Lebanon, along with Suez’s Al-Ain Alsokhna, Adabiya, and East and West Port Said, have also joined the daily activity.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Nuaimi, minister of infrastructure development and chairman of the Federal Transport Authority — Land and Maritime (FTA), said: “The ‘Horns of Hope’ initiative has given people across the region and around the world daily affirmation that all communities are standing together to overcome the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
FASTFACT
Similar efforts have been observed in a number of ports across Europe, such as the Port of Antwerp, Rotterdam, Vauban, Monaco, and Barcelona, in addition to Ports in Germany.
Kitack Lim, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization, said: “As the world’s standard-setting organization for the shipping industry, it is heartening to see the ‘Horns of Hope’ solidarity campaign begun by the UAE has been so enthusiastically adopted by global ports.
“Those who work in shipping to keep the sea lines open for the world are to be admired and respected for their daily selfless acts of courage in the face of adversity and challenge. We are grateful and continue to applaud our members for their support of the ‘Horns of Hope’ campaign.”
Captain Mohamed Juma Al-Shamisi, Abu Dhabi Ports group CEO, said: “To see this initiative moving now beyond the confines of the UAE and onto the world stage fills us with immense pride in our counterparts across the industry, who have joined us under the banner of unity and solidarity.”
“And while the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we, together with the rest of the maritime industry and government authorities, will continue our efforts to drive business continuity, and ensure the transport of critical supplies and cargo remains unhindered.”
