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| Sunday, 2 November 2003 |
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| News Business Features Editorial
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USTDA technical assistance for Lanka Colombo would be the first port in South Asia to be certified under US Customs Container Security Initiative (CSI) if all the four core elements of the CSI are implemented successfully. The four core elements include establishing security criteria to identify high risk containers, pre-screening containers before they arrive at US ports, using technology to pre-screen high risk containers and developing and using smart and secure containers. The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will provide technical assistance supporting the implementation of the CSI in Sri Lanka, making the country more attractive as a regional hub for trade activity. James F. Entwistle, Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy in Sri Lanka signed a memorandum of understanding conferring technical assistance on behalf of the USTDA, while Charith Ratwatte, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance signed on behalf of the Government. The goal of the CSI is to secure an indispensable but vulnerable link in the chain of global trade: the oceangoing sea container USTDA's technical assistance will allow the Government to meet one of the minimum eligibility requirements for CSI participation, the availability and use of non-intrusive inspectional equipment for conducting cargo inspections, USTDA has formed a contract with the US company Aerospace Services International Inc. to assist the Government (1) the evaluation of cargo scanning system needs based upon surveys of the air and sea ports and consultations with Government authorities; (2) preparation of draft tender documents (3) advisory assistance on financing options; and (4) assistance with evaluation of tenders. |
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