Sri Lanka to combat piracy against ships in Asia: ratifies Agreement  [Thursday , June 22, 2006- 10.30 GMT]

Sri Lanka has deposited its Instrument of Ratification of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) with the Depositary, 31st May 2006. The ReCAAP Agreement having the requisite number of ratifications will enter into force September 4, 2006.

According to a Foreign Ministry communiqué state parties to the Agreement, concerned about the rising trend in the number of acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships, including hijacking and other heinous and organized criminal acts, have recognized the need for greater regional cooperation and coordination among all states of the Asian Region to facilitate the speedy exchange of information.

An Information Sharing Centre (ISC) will be established in Singapore, to aid the flow of information. Parties to the Agreement are required to establish a focal point for its communication with the Information Sharing Centre (ISC). They are also expected to take effective measures to eliminate piracy by arresting pirates, seizing their ships or aircraft and by rescuing victims or victim ships.

The focal point will constantly monitor incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, and promptly report that information to the ISC. Parties to the Agreement are expected to aid each other when the need arises.

The ReCAAP Agreement also makes provision to facilitate and enhance effective legal proceedings against alleged criminals, through measures of mutual legal assistance.

Sri Lanka's ratification of the ReCAAP Agreement signifies her commitment to support the on-going international initiatives on terrorism and organized crime and its resolve to combat the increasing threat to maritime security posed by non-state actors.

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Last Updated Date: June 22, 2006 -10.30 GMT