EU affirms interest in enhancing maritime security jointly with Asean

KUALA LUMPUR: The European Union (EU) has affirmed its interest in enhancing maritime security in the South China Sea jointly with Asean.
Maritime Institute of Malaysia chairman Tan Sri Ahmad Ramli Mohd Nor said yesterday the EU's willingness in participating in the joint cooperation with Asean is timely in combating piracy and transnational organised crimes at sea.

Speaking at the second Asean-EU High Level Dialogue on Maritime Security Cooperation forum themed "Developing Inter-Agency and Regional Cooperation" here yesterday, he lauded the move as an excellent opportunity in exchanging ideas on maritime enforcement.
He said although traditional threats at sea appeared to have receded, non-military threats have become rampant and deadly.
"The EU has turned up in full force for this forum and this shows its commitment in assisting Asean." Ahmad Ramli said.
The forum, attended by key experts of Asean and the EU, saw an in-depth exchange of views from both sides on the various aspects of maritime security such as enhancing inter-agency cooperation and coordination; investigations of maritime security incidents, enhancing maritime situational awareness and maintaining security of ports.
The forum also highlighted the fact that it is essential for Asean governments to set aside unresolved South China Sea boundary disputes, which may mar or dampen enforcement on martime crimes.
The forum was hosted by MIM and organised by the Foreign Ministry and the European External Action Service.