IMO boss gives SA security compliance the thumbs up

RAY SMUTS DISCOURAGING international terrorism around the world has become one of the prime goals of the International Maritime Organisation since the 9/11 terrorist attacks on several US targets, secretary general Efthimios Mitropoulos told FTW on his first official visit to South Africa last week. The London-based IMO – sited in the British Capital for its close proximity to Lloyds and other insurers – adds this to its traditional concerns of ensuring safety of life at sea, maritime pollution and maritime security at sea and on land. South Africa’s compliance with the International Port and Safety (ISPS) Security code and its diligence with regard to environmental concerns drew positive response from Mitropoulos. “Since 9/11 we have been busy with raising the defence so that the industry will not become a soft target for international tourism,” he said. Commenting on the likelihood of a further terrorist onslaught in the wake of the executions of former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein and two co-defendants, Mitropoulos diplomatically made clear he was steering clear of politics. “What we have to do is intensify our efforts to raise security standards for shipping, increase the defences and so dissuade and discourage terrorists from using shipping as a means of carrying out their aims.”