It’s good to see shipping companies getting some recognition for their role in the rescue of migrants in the Med.

Last night in Hamburg, Bimco head Phillipe Louis-Dreyfus awarded the association's President’s Award to Columbia Shipmanagement Hamburg, describing their work in rescue operations involving migrant boats in the Mediterranean as “outstanding”.

Attendees to the ceremony were shown a video documenting a September evening in 2013 when Columbia ship King Julius responded to two calls to assist boats in distress in a single night, saving over 180 people - “A classic example of the outstanding work done by our seafarers,” Louis-Dreyfus acknowledged.

“Bimco recognises the commitment and achievement of King Julius’ crew – and by all seafarers involved in similar rescue operations.

“No doubt the large number of people who have been rescued or assisted at sea during migration would also thank them if they could. Many of them owe their lives to the seamanship and skills of our seafarers.”