Singapore: Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean has announced that the Singapore Government is to commit a naval ship and two helicopters from the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) to join in the ongoing multinational efforts to suppress piracy in the Gulf. Organised as the Combined Maritime Forces, the US-led coalition features warships from at least 20 different navies from around the world.
The Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) has applauded the decision, saying it shows that Singapore, a small island state with very limited resources, is strongly committed to playing an appropriate role as an important maritime nation and working in concert with the international community.
SSA president Mr SS Teo said that as a Singaporean and a national shipowner, he was "proud ... that Singapore is able to do its fair share in providing protection to international shipping, including Singapore ships passing the Gulf of Aden. Not only is this an indication of Singapore's commitment to international efforts protecting vessels passing through the region, but a strong measure of reassurance to owners, shippers and seafarers alike." [13/02/09]
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