The event also aimed to review the implementation of the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR 79), to which Vietnam is a signatory. 

Fishermen to the event were provided with information on search and rescue systems at sea, equipment and tools for the work, measures to prevent fishing boats from sinking and burning, first aid methods and lifesaving methods in the case of being in distress at sea. 

In his opening speech, Head of the ministry’s Traffic Safety Department Nguyen Van Thach said the ministry has arranged a series of activities to disseminate measures for ensuring safety for ships, maintaining communications and performing medical emergencies at sea, contributing to raising public awareness of the importance of enforcement of relevant legal regulations. 

The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre has rescued thousands of sailors and a great number of domestic and foreign fishing boats and cargo ships, which met with accidents at sea, he noted.