Port security risks come under the microscope

Leading authorities from around the world are due to converge on Dubai's Grand Hyatt Hotel from 3 - 4 April to hear speakers discuss pressing maritime protection and safety issues, as well as trade and commerce conflicts thrown into focus by the recent controversy over the sale of P&O Ports.

Among the experts speaking at the Airport, Port and Transport Security Middle East (APTS ME) 2006 conference, will be Captain Duncan McKelvie, Chairman of the Nautical Institute (UAE Branch) and Area Marine Representative of NYK Line's Dubai office.

Capt. McKelvie said: "Regional and international topics identifying emerging maritime security threats, including terrorism, organised crime and piracy, cargo screening, border controls and the role of ports, and mitigating risks for the cruise and super yacht industry, will be addressed.

"The UAE has always been a place where realistic and meaningful dialogue can take place. More importantly, it will be translated into action in a realistic and meaningful way."

Among the international experts scheduled to speak is Mahmood Mohd Amin, Head of Group Security, Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), Dubai Security Services. He will outline how best to achieve international excellence in port security.

Amin will focus on how the Arabian Gulf's strategic location is directly related to international trade, and identify the essential role of both a security 'culture' and new technology in improving the protection of ports.

For the first time this year's APTS ME will have a dedicated conference focussing on the supply chain security sector, emphasizing the importance of logistics in effective security.

APTS ME 2006 has attracted an international reputation underlined by the number of top-level speakers due to address a range of critical issues surrounding regional security threats.

Among the participants will be Mohammed Al-Ghaith, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, Jamal Majid Bin Thaniah, DP World, Brigadier/Dr Jamal Mohammed Al Marri, Dubai Police, Essa Abdulla Yateem, Directorate General of Ports, Bahrain and Mohammed Thamir Al Kaabi, Bahrain International Airport.

David Wood, Managing Director of event organiser International Business Events, said: "Some topics will be discussed for the first time regionally at this conference such as the psychology of terrorism, insights into terrorist groups and strategic international risk mitigation efforts."

APTS ME 2006 will be hosted by the Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai and Chairman, Emirates Group.

Leading industry associations and government bodies supporting the conference include Bahrain International Airport, Sharjah International Airport and Fujairah Airport. APTS ME is also supported by DP World, Emirates, Dubai Shipping Agents Association, Arab Air Carriers Organisation and UK Trade & Investment.