World Maritime Day is observed on September 24 every year. The day marks the contribution of international maritime industries towards the economy of the world especially shipping. The day also focuses on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment.
History of World Maritime Day:
World Maritime Day was initiated by the United Nations (UN), through the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The day is to celebrate the contribution offered by the industry of international maritime towards the world’s economy, especially in shipping. World Maritime Day was observed for the first time on 17 March 1978. The day is observed to mark when the IMO Convention entered into force in the year 1958. The date of an event organized varies from country to country and year by year but it is always observed in the last week of September.
Theme of World Maritime Day 2020:
The theme for 2020 World Maritime Day is “Sustainable shipping for a sustainable planet”. This theme is to focus on providing an opportunity to raise awareness of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme aims to provide flexibility to IMO and its Member States to highlight the myriad topics and challenges in fulfilling the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Quotes for World Maritime Day 2020:
- “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don’t have that problem.” -Ronald Reagan
- “Every Marine is, first and foremost, a rifleman. All other conditions are secondary.” -Gen. A. M. Gray
- “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
- “A Ship without Marines is like a garment without buttons.” -Adm. David Dixon Porter
- “We are United States Marines, and for two and a quarter centuries we have defined the standards of courage, esprit, and military prowess.” -Gen. James L. Jones
- “A lot of people attack the sea, I make love to it.” -Jacques Yves Cousteau
