US calls for vigilance to deter pirates

The private maritime industry must adopt best management practices to deter piracy off the Horn of Africa, a US military affairs official said. Last year, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution that recognizes the need to prosecute those who commit crimes at sea and the people who organize, finance and benefit from piracy. Andrew Shapiro, the US assistant secretary of state for political and military affairs, spoke before the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on the international threat posed by piracy. "The challenge posed by piracy off the coast of Somalia is immense and represents a major threat to regional security and the global economy," he said in prepared remarks. Shapiro said Somali pirates operate in a maritime space about the size of the continental United States. While as many as 30 vessels from more than a dozen nations are engaged in counter-piracy operations, the private sector needs to do its part as well, he said. He said the best defense against piracy is vigilance from the private sector. Securing vessels against piracy gives maritime forces the time needed to respond when attacks occur. "Some in the shipping industry have been unwilling make basic investments that would render their crews and cargoes less vulnerable to attack," he said. Shapiro added that while the number of pirate attacks has increased, most haven't been successful.