UN calls for shipping tieup

UN calls for shipping tieup

SINGAPORE (DPA): A U.N. official called for greater
cooperation among ASEAN's public and private sectors in the
shipping industry at a Singapore conference winding up on Friday.

What impacts one country effects the entire region, Barry
Cable, the chief of the U.N.'s water transport section, told the
two-day meeting organized by the Singapore Shipping Association
(SSA) and the Federation of ASEAN Shipowners' Associations.

Shipping among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations (ASEAN) should be strengthened because the
economies are predominantly export driven, Cable said.

"ASEAN countries are able to access international markets
through the major carriers," he said.

But enhanced involvement meant massive investments for large
ships in a highly competitive environment with low freight rates.

Cable proposed instead that the regional shipping industry be
strengthened by focusing on seafarer training, identifying
viable, low-risk niche opportunities and expanding national flag
fleets.