U.S. Coast Guard International Port Security Program representatives conducted a capacity-building seminar on port security audits in Port Moresby from February 13-16, 2023.
The United States Embassy Port Moresby assisted the U.S. Coast Guard to organize a program for more than 40 Papua New Guinea port security officials.
“The U.S. Coast Guard has worked directly with the Department of Transport to tailor this seminar to the needs that were identified by Papua New Guinea. The knowledge gained from this seminar will be used by ports around the country to enhance their port security programs, thus enhancing the security of worldwide maritime transportation system.” said Lieutenant Commander Adam Mullins, Activities Far East, Japan.
The program was designed to enhance port security capabilities in compliance with the 2004 International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code, following recommendations during a U.S. Coast Guard visit in 2019.
Key features of the program include providing technical assistance in the following areas:
1) Port facility access control, in order to enhance the physical protection systems and security capabilities of each port facility.
2) Drills and exercises in order to enhance the effective coordination and implementation of the port facility security plans.
3) Physical security and threat risk assessment, in order to enhance the identification of threats, vulnerabilities, capabilities, preparedness, and existing security measures related to the port.
In an effort to establish a comprehensive approach to maritime security, the International Maritime Organization and its Member States developed the ISPS Code, the only internationally accepted blueprint for the implementation of maritime security measures.
The Coast Guard’s International Port Security Program was established in 2003 to reinforce implementation of the ISPS Code in order to better understand of maritime security measures worldwide.
Implementation of these international standards is a worldwide partnership between maritime nations.“The audit seminar has vastly cleared the minds of all PNG participants about what an ISPS audit is about, and now makes it clearer and easier for the PNG Ministry of Transport to put Audit recommendations to respective port facilities,” said Sylvester Adema – First Assistant Secretary – Maritime Security Division PNG Department of Transport.
“We truly appreciate the efforts and rare support from the USCG IPS Program and its team members.”
The Coast Guard is the principal Federal agency responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship in U.S. ports and inland waterways, along more than 95,000 miles of U.S. coastline, throughout the 4.5 million square miles of U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, and on the high seas.
As a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, a law enforcement organization, a regulatory agency, a member of the U.S.
Intelligence Community, and a first responder, the Coast Guard employs a unique mix of authorities, broad jurisdiction, flexible operational capabilities, and a network of partnerships. Coast Guard safeguards U.S. national security, border security, and economic prosperity in a complex and evolving maritime environment.