The United States and the European Union signed a shipping security deal on Thursday to improve cooperation against terrorism, but critics say it creates loopholes and may increase risks to non-U.S. ports. The deal is meant to ease friction between the world’s two largest trading blocs over tough U.S. demands on container inspection after the Sept. 11 attacks by ensuring reciprocity and equal treatment of all European ports. “This agreement will lead to enhancements in our mutual efforts to prevent terrorists from exploiting the international trading system,” Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said. Full Story
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