Maritime transport is a vital part of Thailand's vision for sustainable economic growth. IMO, in collaboration with the United Kingdom's Department for Transport, conducted a maritime security needs assessment workshop in Bangkok (28 November to 2 December), organized jointly with the Marine Department of Thailand. The event was held with a view to developing a roadmap towards the enhanced implementation of IMO maritime security measures in Thailand.
As part of the workshop, there was a review and assessment of existing national policy and operational processes as regards port security and maritime security management system oversight. Particular emphasis was placed on the national implementation of SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code in connection with the Maritime Administration of Thailand.
The workshop brought together officials from the different Government departments dealing with maritime security. These included the Marine Department, Port Authority of Thailand, the Office of the National Security Council, and Thai Maritime Enforcement Centre (Thai-MECC). Through dialogue, they will identify specific needs at the national level relating to the implementation of relevant requirements set out in SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code which concern safeguarding maritime security in ports and on-board ships.