cooperative relations between JMSA and USCG. To date, they have held three meetings of oil removal specialists and have been actively promoting the exchange of information and o pinions.
In addition, Japan and the Republic of Korea held the Third Japan-Korea Expert Meeting on Oil Spill Preparedness and Response in July 1996. They exchanged information and opinions regarding matters such as the current state of oil removal readiness in Japan and the Republic of Korea, and considered a cooperative relationship between the two countries for times when oil pollution occurs. Japan intends to further promote cooperative relationships with its Korean counterparts hereafter as well.
Japan and Russia also held their First Japan-Russia Expert Meeting on Oil Spill Preparedness and Response in July 1996. They exchanged information and opinions regarding matters such as the current state of oil removal readiness in Japan and Russia, and intend to further promote cooperative relationships hereafter as well.
(3) Ensuring Maritime Traffic Safety in Asia
JMSA sent experts to London to attend the IMO's 41st, in September 1995, and 42nd, in July 1996, sessions of the NAV Sub-Committee, as well as the meeting of the 66th session of the Maritime Safety Committee, held from May to June 1996. JMSA offered its opinions regarding the Traffic Separation Schemes proposed by other countries.
Japan is contributing to IMO's navigational safety countermeasures. In particular, regarding the Malachi and Singapore Straits, since they are international straits through which ships from countries worldwide, including Japan, pass frequently, Japan also offered a proposal regarding studying matters such as the establishment of a Traffic Separation Schemes and regulations on safety of navigation.
In addition, the Japan Association of Maritime Safety established a Singapore Representative Office in July 1996. It is investigating navigational safety measures in Southeast Asian waters, including the Malacca and Singapore Straits. JMSA is cooperating with this effort.
(4) Regional Cooperation Against Maritime Crime
Because it is difficult for one country alone to implement law enforcement measures against drugs and firearms, JMSA is actively promoting cooperation with the law enforcement organizations of other countries. It is working vigorously in this area by participating in the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs, as well as other efforts. In September 1995, JMSA and the Russian Border Guard held the Japan-Russia Maritime Security Organizations Meeting in Vladivostok, to exchange views on the trends of illegal drug and arms transactions and to share related information. In addition, in November 1995, JMSA organized and invited experts from the Kingdom of Thailand and other countries
