ReCAAP partners with OCIMF to fight ship piracy in Asia

Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) to boost the fight against piracy and armed robbery on ships in Asia. 

As part of the MoU, ReCAAP’s Information Sharing Centre will work with OCIMF to help protect the interests of ships and seafarers operating in the continent.

The partnership will also promote collaboration between governmental organisations and the shipping industry for the improvement of maritime safety by sharing information, best practices and expertise.

ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre executive director Masafumi Kuroki said: “Over the past few years, the incidences of piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia have gradually declined.

"Continued vigilance and engagement with stakeholders are essential in safeguarding the interests of ships and seafarers operating in Asia.

"ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre’s deepening partnership with OCIMF represents our commitment to work with industry to support the safety and security of ship owners and mariners.”

In addition, the latest agreement was signed on the basis of an existing collaborative relationship between ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre and OCIMF. 

In 2015, ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre, OCIMF and other stakeholders created a working group to develop a comprehensive guide for shipowners and seafarers operating in Asian waters.

Being the first regional government-to-government agreement, ReCAAP seeks to promote and improve cooperation against piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia. 

The agreement came into force in September 2006, with 14 Asian countries involved. Currently, 20 countries are part of ReCAAP, including four European, Australia, and the US.

Image: Deal signing between ReCAAP and OCIMF representatives. Photo: courtesy of ReCAAP.