German shipping companies are intensifying pressure on the federal government for a diplomatic solution amid discussions of a military deployment in the Strait of Hormuz.
“Given the current situation, the government is understandably weighing every option very carefully” said Martin Kröger, chief executive of the Association of German Shipowners (VDR). “We see this not as a matter of German war involvement but as a chance to support international efforts to secure commercial shipping in a political and diplomatic way”.
As a major trading nation, Germany has a fundamental interest in safe maritime routes. “About two‑thirds of our imports and exports move by sea; without secure shipping lanes there can be no free and stable trade” Kröger added. “Those who need reliable supply for the economy and population must not leave those who, at times, bear much risk of securing trade over water, alone”.
Regardless of the current tension in the Gulf region, the underlying question remains: how important is the protection of open and secure sea lanes, and of ships and their crews, for Germany? The VDR’s chief executive maintains that this issue is centrally relevant to national interests.