Transport minister back IMO effectiveness

Transport minister back IMO effectiveness    Transport ministers from 14 nations said in a joint statement Friday that measures taken by the International Maritime Organization, which overseas international shipping, have helped strengthened international maritime security.
   The Ministerial Statement on Security in the International Maritime Transport Sector, adopted by the Ministerial Conference on International Transport Security in Tokyo, welcomed and supported the vigorous maritime security activities undertaken by relevant international organizations, particularly the IMO and the World Customs Organization, IMO said in a statement.
   A continuing high priority must be given to addressing vulnerabilities in international maritime transport by promoting further enhancement of international maritime security, bearing in mind the significance of ensuring the efficient and legitimate flow of people and goods, the statement said.
   The transport ministers also noted the adoption in September 2005 of the Jakarta Statement on Enhancement of Safety, Security and Environmental Protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and in particular the agreement that a mechanism be established by the three states that border the straits to meet on a regular basis with user nations, the shipping industry and others with an interest in keeping the Straits of Malacca and Singapore open for navigation.