Counter-Terrorism Experts and Business Representatives to Meet in Sydney in June
Counter terrorism experts, business representatives and government officers will meet in Sydney in June to explore cost-effective solutions to enhance the safe and secure movement of people and trade in our region.
Under the theme of "Mitigating Risks: Containing Costs," the Fifth Secure Trade in the APEC Region (STAR V) Conference will build on the success of the previous STAR Conferences that have been held around the Pacific.
High profile speakers from international organisations and leading international companies will join senior representatives from APEC economies in discussing cross-cutting issues such as the:
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latest tools and technology in security;
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effectiveness and scope for public-private sector partnerships;
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capacity building in developing trading economies; and
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future directions for security of trade.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is hosting STAR V in Sydney from 27-28 June 2007 with the conference to be chaired by Mr. Mike Smith, Australia's Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism.
The annual STAR Conference is one of a series of regional capacity-building initiatives established by APEC Member Economies following terrorist actions that included the September 11 attacks.
The STAR conferences provide an interface between government agencies and business on issues and concerns relevant to the secure movement of people and trade within the APEC region and form a key part of APEC's counter-terrorism agenda. Business people recognise that we need a stable regional environment to encourage trade and development.
APEC members account for nine out of the top 10 global seaports by cargo volume and 24 of the top 30 airports for passenger traffic and 22 of the top 30 airports by cargo volume.
With a principal focus on the security of identity and security of the supply chain, STAR V is supported by three key Australian Government agencies: the Departments of Immigration and Citizenship, Transport and Regional Services, and the Australian Customs Service.