Global ports have joined together under Abu Dhabi Ports’ ‘Horns of Hope’ initiative to show support for those engaged on the front lines with the coronavirus pandemic
The initiative calls on all ships in harbours around the world to sound their horns in 15-second bursts each evening, in recognition of the efforts of maritime, healthcare, 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 persistence and dedication of frontline workers inspires all of us to fight, each on his own front. Even as life as we know it has been brought to a halt by the pandemic, the courage and exemplary commitment of medical teams, port workers, police forces, and countless other essential workers has meant that food, medical care, and all other necessities are still widely available to us.”
Kitack Lim, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), added, “As the world’s standard-setting organisation 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.”
Yehia Zaki, chairman of the General Authority for Suez Canal Economic Zone, commented, “Ports and waterways are among the most strategically important trade assets in the world, and thus, must be kept open and operating. The ports of Suez Canal Economic Zone at East and West Port Said, Al Ain Alsokhna and Adabiya joined the UAE’s “Horns of Hope” solidarity campaign, as we give thanks and praise to the men and women who continue to work tirelessly across this vital sector. Their tireless efforts ensure that our ports, harbours, and waterways are not only open but are running safely and seamlessly, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.”
