IMO Secretary General expressed condolences to Azerbaijan

Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez expressed condolences to Azerbaijan over the tragic death of Azerbaijani seafarers in the Sea of Azov.

As Report conveys, this was stated in his letter addressed to our country's Ambassador to the United Kingdom Elin Suleymanov.

"It is with deep sorrow that I learned of the tragic loss of life resulting from the attacks on the cargo vessels Natra and Zirkon in the Sea of Azov on 5 June 2026. The incident reportedly claimed the lives of Azerbaijani seafarers (4 seafarers - ed.), while others were injured (4 seafarers - ed.). On behalf of the entire membership of the International Maritime Organization, the Secretariat, and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased, as well as with all those affected by this tragedy," the message reads.

Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that the IMO remains committed to ensuring the safety, security, and protection of all seafarers, as well as supporting international efforts to create safe maritime navigation conditions.

"Continued cooperation between member states and all participants in the maritime industry is essential for preventing such tragedies and strengthening the protection of those who work at sea," the IMO Secretary-General noted.