DUBAI – A conference to discuss strategies to counter the rise in piracy, particularly off the Somali coast, is to be held in Dubai between the 6th and 8th of December. The event is being organised to assist in improving cooperation between both commercial interests such as shipping lines and government organisations, primarily the navies and coast guards who are attempting to stem the increase in global piracy.
‘Counter-Piracy and Ship Security 2009’ will be a forum for the entire maritime community to come together and debate the issues and attempt to create viable solutions to the problem. It is envisaged as the perfect opportunity for the disparate sections who are involved in the blight of sea crime and hijackings to meet and exchange ideas and intelligence.
Joanna Edwards, Divisional Director of IQPC Middle East who are organising the conference, says: “With maritime piracy costing the world an estimated $60-70 million in 2008 and a worrying rise in sea crimes across the MENA region, it is of the utmost importance for the maritime community to collaborate and cooperate across the military civilian divide to find strategies that can mitigate the risks and minimize the economic impact on the region.”
Organisations confirmed to participate include NATO, the US Coast Guard, the Bahrain Coast Guard and NYK Lines.
Companies that are affected by piracy or otherwise wish to attend can find details for applying here.
(pic: Captain Kidd and the traditional punishment for dealing with pirates)
http://www.counterpiracyme.com
