changi exhibition centreTHE Asia-Pacific's largest dedicated international maritime defence show, now in its eight year, was launched in Singapore at the Changi Exhibition Centre this morning. The International Maritime Defence Exhibition Exhibition & Conference (IMDEX) Asia 2011 is expected to be a key platform for the exchange of views on developments in the maritime defence area. Participants include more than 45 navies and maritime enforcement agencies, and 165 exhibitors from countries all around the world. Also, some 20 warships from countries such as the Republic of Korea, the US, the UK, Indonesia and India, the latest stealth frigates, corvettes and destroyers, arrived here yesterday for this three-day event. The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence
Teo Chee Hean. DPM Teo noted that the security of martime trade routes are of vital importance to all nations, as "transporting goods and commerce by sea remains the most economical and efficient mode of transport". Moreover, he emphasised on the importance of international cooperation in this arena. "The continuing piracy situation in...the Gulf of Aden and off the Coast of Somalia, underscores how threats to the freedom of navigation in one region can have global ramifications," said DPM Teo. "Ships planning on transiting the Gulf of Aden can deal with the increased risks either by rerouting to avoid the area, or accepting the risk and enhancing vessel security," he explains. He noted that both options entail economic cost.
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