Jasim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, today welcomed the Sultanate of Oman's announcement, in coordination with the International Maritime Organization, to launch a plan to evacuate more than 11,000 stranded sailors by making available the option of using a temporary maritime corridor for vessels in accordance with international law and the law of the sea, in a manner that enhances freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz freely and without restrictions or conditions.
Al Budaiwi said in a statement that this initiative reflects the support of GCC member states for all regional and international efforts aimed at enhancing maritime security, consolidating security and stability, and reducing tensions in the region.