Coast Guard’s commandant talks security with IMO secretary-general

Coast GuardÆs commandant talks security with IMO secretary-general    Adm. Thomas H. Collins, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, met with Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization, at IMO headquarters in London to discuss maritime security.
   Mitropoulos told Collins the IMO wanted the Coast Guard to implement security measures without interrupting the business of ports, or making ports less efficient. He also urged that 'the traditional rights of seafarers,' including 'access to shore leave,' be upheld and respected, the IMO said in a statement.
   The IMO referred to figures showing a 'high degree of compliance' with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and 'almost no disturbance of world trade,' the IMO reported.
   Collins and Mitropoulos agreed 'on the vital importance' of keeping secure 'strategic sea lanes ' such as the straits of Malacca,' the IMO said.
   The IMO is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping, and the prevention of pollution by ships.