Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez has expressed condolences to Azerbaijan over the tragic death of Azerbaijani sailors in the Sea of Azov.

Axar.az informs, citing Rеport, the IMO secretary-general addressed a letter to the Azerbaijan Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Elin Suleymanov.

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life as a result of the attacks on the cargo vessels Natra and Zirkon in the Sea of Azov on June 5, 2026. As reported, Azerbaijani sailors were killed in the incident (four sailors - ed.), while others were injured (four sailors - ed.). On behalf of the entire membership of the International Maritime Organization, the Secretariat and myself, I extend my deepest condolences to the government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Our thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as with all those affected by this tragedy," the message said.

He emphasized that the IMO remains committed to ensuring the safety, security and protection of all seafarers, as well as supporting international efforts to create safe conditions for shipping.

"Continued cooperation among Member States and all stakeholders in the maritime industry is essential to preventing such tragedies and strengthening the protection of those who work at sea," Dominguez said.