New Partnership between Oil Companies and Counter Piracy Body Agreed

ASIA – The safety of navigation is vital to the safety, security and economic activities of all stakeholders traversing sea routes in Asia – the region with some of the busiest seas in the world. Following the release of its report on the piracy and armed robbery in Asian waters, the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) to boost the fight against such attacks in the region.

The agreement will see the Information Sharing Centre of ReCAAP, the first regional government-to-government agreement to promote and enhance cooperation against piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia, and OCIMF, the foremost authority on the safe and environmentally responsible operation of oil tankers, terminals and offshore support vessels, cooperate to safeguard the interests of ships and seafarers operating in Asia.

Both parties will work together to promote the partnership between governmental organisations and the shipping industry for the betterment of maritime safety by sharing information, best practices and expertise. Masafumi Kuroki, Executive Director of ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre, commented:

“Over the past few years, the incidences of piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia have gradually declined. Continued vigilance and engagement with stakeholders are essential in safeguarding the interests of ships and seafarers operating in Asia. ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre’s deepening partnership with OCIMF represents our commitment to work with industry to support the safety and security of ship owners and mariners.”

The signing of the MOU builds on an existing collaborative relationship between ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre and OCIMF. In late 2015, ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre and OCIMF, as well as other stakeholders formed a working group to develop a comprehensive guide for shipowners and seafarers operating in Asian waters. ‘The Regional Guide to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia’, a direct result of this working group, was published in February 2016 and has been disseminated broadly. OCIMF’s Director, Andrew Cassels, said:

“OCIMF is an international organisation focused on safety, security and environmental issues affecting the oil shipping industry. We have common values with the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre to keep seafarers safe and the maritime highways secure. In today’s uncertain world, industry must work collaboratively and support governments in protecting our vital interests ensuring global trade can be safely conducted. This memorandum of understanding acknowledges the importance of that relationship.”

Image: ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre Executive Director Masafumi Kuroki (L) and OCIMF Director Andrew Cassels affirm shared interest and collaboration with MOU.