THE Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has strengthened its efforts to improve the country’s maritime security through a joint capacity-building seminar with the US Coast Guard.
The seminar, which concluded last week, focused on port security management.
It brought together decision-makers and port facility security officers (PFSOs) from Government, port and ship security sectors.
At the closing, MSAF highlighted the partnership’s role in building capacity to meet maritime security obligations around ships and port facilities.
The training is expected to support Fiji’s National Security Strategy and contribute to the development of a modern maritime security framework.
MSAF is also broadening its focus beyond foreign vessels to include assessments of local port facilities, terminal managers and marinas.
The Authority said its approach placed greater emphasis on “cooperation” rather than relying solely on ISPS assessments, which includes strengthening communication and coordination with ISPS facilities through ongoing exercises, on-site meetings and workshops.
MSAF is urging local stakeholders to work together to meet continuing security commitments and strengthen the protection of Fiji’s maritime infrastructure.
The partnership with the US Coast Guard provides a foundation for continued capacity building as Fiji works to strengthen security across its ports and maritime facilities.
