The world’s maritime sector is standing in solidarity with communities around the world battling the coronavirus pandemic by joining Abu Dhabi Ports’ initiative “Horns of Hope.”

In a world-first campaign, all ships in harbors around the world will sound their horns in 15-second bursts each evening in recognition and support of the maritime, health care, and sector personnel who continue to work in mission-critical roles to address the impact of COVID-19.

The initiative, which was launched on March 31 received a welcome boost when both the International Maritime Organization — the 174-member state strong UN specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping — and the Arab Sea Ports Federation formally committed their members to the cause.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al-Shamisi, Abu Dhabi Ports Group CEO, said: “It is deeply humbling and touching to witness the wide regional and global response to our call to sound the ‘Horns of Hope.’ This initiative spreads hope around the world and highlights the vital importance of our maritime and logistics lifelines at a time of crisis.”