6
J
Representatives from 16 maritime authorities are in Hong Kong for the third Asia-Pacific regional port state control meeting in support of adequate and effective standards of maritime safety and pollution prevention.
Mr Siu said: "These are issues which need international, as well as regional, co- operation.
"Our aim must be to send a clear message that substandard ships are unacceptable in our ports and on our seas.
"Their operators should be in no doubt that the international community today demands safer ships and a cleaner environment."
Representatives attending the meeting will work out the harmonisation of inspection procedures, information exchange and the training scheme for inspectors at a regional level.
The outcome of their discussion here will help to enhance the co-ordination of port state control activities in the Asia-Pacific region.
Mr Siu said Hong Kong was proud to be part of the regional effort in co- ordinating Port State Control.
In 1994, 5,000 different foreign ships called at Hong Kong and the number was expected to rise to 8,000 by the year 2000.
On the territory's role in Port State Control, Mr Siu said this year Hong Kong should achieve an inspection rate of five per cent.
"Our target is to achieve the full 15 per cent by the year 2000 and under the able leadership of the Director of Marine, Mr Ian Dale, I am sure we shall be able to make Hong Kong an even better port where safety and environmental standards will be the highest in the region and where business will thrive," he said.
End
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.