Beijing (ANTARA News/AFP) – China is to ramp up development on a disputed South China Sea island, a local government chief has said, in a move likely to stoke a growing territorial row with its neighbours. The development of roads, water supply and drainage systems will be stepped-up in the new “capital” city of…
Piracy off the coast of Somalia has dropped off dramatically in 2012. Successful ship hijackings have decreased from 31 in 2011 (and 49 in 2010) to only four so far in 2012. Attacks against ships have also decreased, falling from 199 reported attacks in the first nine months of 2011 to 70 attacks over…
HMS Holland, first of a new class of Royal Netherlands Navy patrol vessels of the same name, has been named “Ship of the Year”. The prestigious prize has been awarded to the innovative ship, which was designed and mostly built in the Netherlands, during the annual Maritime Awards Gala in Rotterdam on 8 November…
During the period from 31 October to 6 November, there were no piracy related incidents reported in the High Risk Area (HRA). However, there have been continuing reports of suspicious activity. Merchant vessels are advised to remain vigilant throughout the HRA and ensure that Self Protection Measures are in place, as Pirate Attack Groups…