ABU DHABI // The UAE must increase counter-terrorism efforts along its sea borders to protect key commercial waterways, according to a security expert.
"The UAE has a chance to show real leadership in practising its sovereign responsibilities of protecting its water borders, and has a key opportunity in implementing counter-terror strategies to protect its central role in trade and commerce between the East and the West," said Christopher Parry, a retired rear-admiral in the British Royal Navy.
Mr Parry is a defence and security adviser for Clarion Events Middle East, regional branch of a UK-based company that produces business-to-business exhibitions and conferences around the world. The firm plans a counter-terror expo at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from October 31 to November 2.
Organisers say they hope to create a platform for governments and security personnel to connect with experts and businesses that specialise in the latest counter-terror solutions.
"This conference is in line with Abu Dhabi's goal of continuing to be a leader in security and defence," said Danny Sebright, a defence industry expert and the president of the US-UAE Business Council.
"Improving capability to counter terror is one of the most important elements for governments of this region, since they aim to continue an open and progressive economy. Pursuing and achieving best practices in counter terror have never been more important for the region."
Clarion's previous counter-terror expos took place in London and Washington.
"The conference will bring together leading government officials, security advisers, industry experts, counter-terror technology and solutions in the first diverse showcase for defence and security of its kind in Abu Dhabi," said Mr Parry.