Germany’s shipowners expressed solidarity with their French colleagues today, and called for unity from the maritime community worldwide against extremist terrorism after the Paris jihadi attacks last week.
Amid heightened tension across Europe, Alfred Hartmann, president of the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR), said international shipping was determined to stand together.
Speaking at the opening of the annual general meeting of global shipowners’ association BIMCO in Hamburg, he said: “In these frightful days following the barbaric attack on France and its citizens, please be assured that we the international maritime community are firmly on your side.”
The chairman of Hartmann AG added: “We must show resolve now and join forces against these attackers and affirm our position that people irrespective of religion, gender, skin colour and origin must be able to live their lives in peace and harmony.”
French police today mounted a major operation in the Paris suburb of St Denis against some of those suspected of involvement in the terrorist attacks that killed 129 people and injured many more.
French shipowner Philippe Louis-Dreyfus, who became president of BIMCO earlier this year and whose company is based in Paris, said he deeply appreciated Hartmann’s comments “with my eyes, my ears, my mind and my heart.”
“We are sad, but we are very proud. It happened in France but it could have happened in any other country. Indeed it has, in Spain, England and Denmark to name a few.
“But this is about defending the idea of democracy, of freedom of thought, and of freedom of religion. That is the important price we pay for our democracy.”
Hartmann said the “horrifying images” from Paris were “depressing and appalling”.
He added: “They make me feel both endlessly sad and furious – an absolute nightmare. The heart of France was the target of these inhuman monsters.”
Addressing Louis-Dreyfus directly he said: “We grieve with you and the French people. However, we are also highly determined.
“And we are proud of the courage and strength that France is mustering in these difficult times – for our shared values, for liberty, equality and fraternity.”
