Representatives from the nation’s security apparatus which make up the Advisory Team on maritime security standards, met this week with the designated authority within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dr. Clarence E. Pilgrim.
The Advisory Team comprises representatives from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF), and the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP) convened the meeting with Dr. Pilgrim as part of a coordinated effort to reinforce maritime security standards.
The meeting focused on the implementation and enforcement of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. This code, developed under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), provides a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the security of ships and port facilities against threats and unlawful acts.
The Advisory Team and the Ministry discussed strategies to ensure that national regulations aligned with the ISPS Code are effectively upheld. The discussion also emphasized the importance of inter-agency coordination and continuous training to ensure the highest level of readiness and compliance.
“Maritime security is national security,” stated Dr. Pilgrim. “Antigua and Barbuda remains firmly committed to upholding the principles of the ISPS Code and working alongside our security agencies to protect our ports, safeguard our people, and maintain international confidence in our maritime operations.”
This meeting represents a unified step toward strengthening national security architecture and maintaining safe and secure maritime operations.
