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. In a statement from Brussels, European Commissioner for Customs Frits Bolkestein called the deal an “important step forward,” based on transatlantic reciprocity. Full Story
About OODA Analyst
OODA is comprised of a unique team of international experts capable of providing advanced intelligence and analysis, strategy and planning support, risk and threat management, training, decision support, crisis response, and security services to global corporations and governments.