Circular no. 06 of 2021 14th February, 2021
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Sub: First batch of seafarers of “Anastasia” stuck at Chinese Anchor finally back in India
We are pleased to inform you that the first batch of our seafarers of “Anastasia” who were stuck at the Chinese anchorage for more than 6 months are finally back in India to re-unite with their families. The seafarers were caught in the trade and political war between Australia and China.
Our seafarers had to undergo trauma and frustration to be stuck at a Chinese anchor in the mid-sea under very challenging conditions. The National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) and MUI had taken up the matter at the highest level.
The support of the maritime administration, the Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of External Affairs, individual seafarers and family members, associations was responsible for the homecoming of our seafarers. Here it needs to be pointed out about the important role of Team MSC which stood like a rock to get our seafarers back to India against many odds. We appreciate the support and guidance of Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Shipping for his active direction in the matter.
On the happy homecoming of our seafarers, Shri Abdulgani Serang, NUSI General Secretary stated “Seafarers are professionals discharging their duties. While the land, the air was standstill during Covid 19, only the seas were active because of the passion of the seafarers who kept the world moving”.
We want our seafarers of “Anastasia” to first spend quality time with their families and will come with more details later.
Yours sincerely,
(Abdulgani Y. Serang)
General Secretary – cum – Treasurer
National Union of Seafarers of India
Executive Board Member – ITF
Vice-Chair, Seafarers Section, ITF Asia Pacific Region
Vice-Chair, ITF Asia Pacific Region