Sunday Newscape Magazine

NEW YORK DECLARATION

Commitment to Best Management Practices to Avoid, Deter or Delay Acts of Piracy
Introduction

The undersigned countries recognize the increasing problem of acts of piracy and armed robbery against vessels and seafarers on innocent passage. All acts of piracy and armed robbery against vessels and seafarers are condemned. The undersigned countries note with particular concern the acts of piracy and hijackings off Somalia and East Africa.

The significant efforts of the international community in trying to stop the acts of piracy and hijackings off the coast of Somalia and East Africa are fully recognized. The undersigned countries note with gratitude the international Naval operations taking place off the coast of Somalia and East Africa to prevent acts of piracy and hijackings.

The undersigned countries acknowledge that all vessels, including those on their registers, have an important role in taking self protection measures to reduce the risk of acts of piracy.

Internationally Recognized Best Management Practices to Avoid, Deter or Delay acts of Piracy

The undersigned countries fully recognize that self protection measures taken by vessels can be highly effective in avoiding, deterring or delaying piracy attacks. The undersigned countries are committed to promulgating internationally recognized best management practices for self protection to vessels on their registers.

International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code

The undersigned countries recognize that self protection measures taken by vessels to avoid, deter or delay piracy attacks are an essential part of compliance with the ISPS Code. The undersigned countries will ensure when carrying out their obligations under the ISPS Code that vessels on their registry have adopted and documented appropriate self protection measures in their Ship Security Plans as part of ISPS Code compliance.

BAHAMAS REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA

REPUBLIC OF MARSHALL ISLANDS REPUBLIC OF PANAMA