On behalf of the Australian Border Force, I extend our sincere congratulations to ReCAAP on your 20^th founding anniversary.

The Australian Border Force acknowledges the long standing and close relationship between our two agencies, built on shared values and mutual respect. This milestone is a testament to the enduring partnership we have developed over many years.

As the first regional government to government agreement established to promote and enhance cooperation against Piracy and Armed Robbery against ships in Asia, ReCAAP has played a pivotal role in strengthening maritime security. The work undertaken over the past 20 years and the significant contributions made by ReCAAP member nations has greatly enhanced regional cooperation and stability across Southeast Asia. ReCAAP and its member states should be proud of these achievements.

Once again congratulations on this remarkable milestone.

On behalf of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh and the Ministry of Shipping, I extend warm felicitations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) on the occasion of its 20^th anniversary.

Though its history spans just two decades, ReCAAP ISC has established itself as a model of regional cooperation and maritime governance. Since its inception in November 2006, the Centre has made commendable strides in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia, through timely information sharing, capacity building and analytical reporting. These efforts have significantly contributed to enhanced maritime safety and security across the region.

Bangladesh is proud to be a Contracting Party to ReCAAP, and reaffirms its enduring commitment to the Centre's mission. ReCAAP's distinct government-to-government framework allows for direct collaboration, enabling functional efficacy in strategic decision­ making. Its role in fostering trust among maritime stakeholders, particularly through its network of Focal Points and Contact Point, has proven indispensable.

Given that Asia accounts for nearly 80% of global container throughput, maritime stability in the region is critical to global trade. Yet piracy and armed robbery at sea,­ particularly in Southeast Asia, continue to pose serious risks to economic stability and seafarer welfare. ReCAAP ISC's coordinated efforts with the shipping industry, enforcement agencies and member governments have proven essential in addressing these evolving threats.

The 20^th anniversary of ReCAAP is a testament to the shared vision, resilience and achievements of its 21 member states, and the enduring partnerships that underpin its success. The synergy among governments, maritime authorities, shipping stakeholders and international partners has been vital to its journey toward becoming a Centre of Excellence in information sharing.

As we commemorate this milestone, Bangladesh reiterates its full support for ReCAAP, and looks forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to ensure secure, peaceful and prosperous seas.

We wish ReCAAP ISC continued success in the years ahead.

On behalf of the Government and people of Brunei Darussalam, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) on its 20^th Anniversary in 2026.

Since its inception in 2006, ReCAAP has been a cornerstone of regional maritime safety and security. Through the dedicated work of the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) and the strong collaboration among ReCAAP Contracting Parties, the Asian region has witnessed significant progress in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships at sea. The timely sharing of information, capacity building initiatives and promotion of best practices have enhanced the safety of seafarers, secured vital shipping lanes, and supported the stability of our maritime domain.

Brunei Darussalam is proud to be a part of this collective effort. Our partnership with ReCAAP ISC reflects our shared values of cooperation, trust and mutual support. Together, we have built a network that not only addresses immediate security concerns but also strengthens the long-term resilience of our region’s maritime governance.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, I commend the commitment and professionalism of ReCAAP ISC and its partners. May the years ahead bring continued success in ensuring safe and secure seas for all.

On behalf of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport of the Kingdom of Cambodia, I extend my warmest congratulations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) on the occasion of its 20th anniversary.

Over the past two decades, ReCAAP ISC has played a vital role in strengthening maritime safety and security throughout the region. Its dedication to information sharing and regional cooperation has brought tangible progress in combating piracy and armed robbery at sea.

Cambodia is proud to be a member and active contributor to this shared mission. We commend ReCAAP ISC's unwavering commitment to building safer seas, and we appreciate the opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding that this platform provides.

As you mark this important milestone, we look back on twenty years of meaningful work and collective achievements. We also look forward to continuing our partnership in the years ahead, guided by shared values and a common purpose.

Please accept my sincere appreciation and best wishes for continued success. May ReCAAP ISC carry its legacy forward with renewed energy and commitment.

For the past two decades, ReCAAP has been widely recognized as a successful model for intergovernmental cooperation in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia. In the course of this endeavor the ReCAAP Information Sharing Center (ISC) has played a pivotal role through information sharing, capacity building, and pragmatic cooperation among regional and international partners, including China. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my appreciation to the Center’s staff for their dedication and steadfast support.

As the Chinese proverb goes, “The virtue of ships lies in transcending barriers and uniting the world”. Despite efforts of all parties, maritime security governance is still confronted with multifaceted challenges. As an active participant of ReCAAP, China attaches great importance to maritime security and reaffirms its commitment to working closely with ReCAAP partners to promote dialogue and collaboration, with the aim of building a safer and more prosperous maritime community in Asia.

The Kingdom of Denmark extends its warmest congratulations to the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) on the occasion of its 20^th Anniversary.

Since its founding, ReCAAP and its Information Sharing Centre (ISC) have played a vital role in promoting maritime safety and security in Asia. The sharing of timely, accurate, and reliable information is key to addressing piracy and armed robbery against ships at sea. It enables early warning, informed decision-making, and swift operational responses — all of which are essential to protecting seafarers and securing vital shipping lanes.

Denmark greatly values its partnership with ReCAAP ISC and commends the Centre’s efforts to foster regional cooperation and capacity building. Through its work, ReCAAP ISC has enhanced mutual trust and operational coordination among coastal states and stakeholders in the region.

As a maritime nation with global trade interests, Denmark supports initiatives that strengthen the rules-based international order at sea. We view ReCAAP as an important platform for multilateral engagement and a model for effective regional cooperation.

We congratulate ReCAAP on two decades of dedicated service and look forward to continued collaboration in promoting a safer maritime domain in Asia and beyond.

Distinguished colleagues, dear friends

In the journey of work, every anniversary marks a chapter of commitment.

20 Years of ReCAAP! That’s a huge milestone! The friends in the Centre have shown loyalty, passion, and hard work for two full decades. And those were also two decades of impact and inspiration.

The freedom and security of trade routes is important for all economies. At the end of the day, increasing numbers of attacks on ships put our prosperity at risk. 

A key element of ReCAAP’s dedication is the exchange of information on security-related incidents through the Information Sharing Centre established in Singapore where we are proudly seizing the opportunity of commemorating this occasion.

Germany expanded its efforts at the international level to fight piracy and armed robbery only five years ago. Germany’s accession to ReCAAP is also a key step towards implementing the policy guidelines on the Indo-Pacific region adopted by the Federal Government in September 2020 – the strategic guide for Germany’s foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific. The aim of the policy guidelines is to intensify relations in and with the region and place them on a broader footing and constituting Germany to be a reliable partner in the long term. 

The Centre’s commitment on building mutual trust and cooperation through its broad activities is outstanding and the foundation of this partnership of values. By this, it is valuable support in achieving our aim and I am grateful and honored to be here with you all today.

On behalf of Indian Coast Guard, it is with immense pride that I convey my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) and all Contracting Parties on the momentous and truly historic occasion of the 20^th anniversary of ReCAAP.

Since its inception in 2006, ReCAAP has ascended to the status of an unparalleled pillar of regional cooperation in the domain of maritime safety and security. As the first and most pioneering multilateral Government-to-Government agreement in Asia, specifically forged to confront the twin scourges of piracy and armed robbery against ships, ReCAAP has enhanced maritime domain awareness, operational synergy and capacity building throughout the vast expanse of the region. India, as a fervent Contracting Party, takes pride in its longstanding partnership and remains resolute in its support for the collective vision of safer, secure and harmonious seas.

I remain deeply sanguine that ReCAAP will continue to serve as a luminous beacon, a guiding light that will shape the contours of a maritime order that is not only secure and stable, but firmly rooted in the tenets of international law and mutual cooperation. The strength of the ReCAAP framework lies in the rare and precious trust, the prompt and transparent sharing of critical information, and the resolve of its members in working collaboratively towards the common good. As maritime threats grow ever more insidious, multifaceted, and transnational in nature, ReCAAP's relevance, resilience and impact will only deepen, expanding its vital role in the years to come.

Once again, I extend my congratulations to the Executive Director, the extraordinary team at the ISC, and all Contracting Parties. May the ReCAAP ISC continue to flourish and inspire, standing as a paragon of regional unity and a resolute guardian of maritime peace.

On behalf of the Government of Japan, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the ReCAAP ISC on its 20^th Anniversary and to the Executive Director, Mr. Vijay D Chafekar, for his leadership of this important organisation. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to all stakeholders involved with ReCAAP.

Since ReCAAP went into force in 2006 with 14 initial contracting parties from Asia, the number of parties has expanded over the past two decades and now reached 21 countries, extending beyond Asia. ReCAAP has played a vital role in ensuring regional maritime safety and security, and its expansion clearly demonstrates its significance for global maritime security and trade.

We, the contracting parties, have been accumulating and sharing knowledge on maritime security through regional cooperation facilitated by ReCAAP ISC. The decrease in serious incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships is a testament to the success of the ReCAAP ISC.

Japan is committed to cooperating with ReCAAP ISC in further developing the maritime law enforcement capabilities of coastal states, which is essential for building a maritime order based on the rule of law and realizing a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)”. Japan will continue to work with member states to promote international cooperation for maritime security.

On behalf of the Republic of Korea, I am pleased to extend my warmest congratulations to the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) on the occasion of its 20^th anniversary.

Since its establishment in 2006, the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) has played a pivotal role in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia, fostering regional cooperation among its 21 Contracting Parties.

Over the past two decades, the ReCAAP ISC has made significant strides in enhancing the safety of key shipping routes, including the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. Its dedicated efforts, ranging from the rapid sharing of incident information to comprehensive capacity building, have also safeguarded the logistics and supply chains on which many countries depend. These achievements have strengthened mutual trust and operational coordination among Contracting Parties, while bolstering national capabilities to address maritime threats.

Nevertheless, geopolitical uncertainties persist, and piracy remains an ongoing challenge in various parts of the world. In such times, the vision and mission of the ReCAAP ISC are more essential than ever. It is imperative that all Contracting Parties continue to stand together, reinforcing mechanisms for information sharing and regional cooperation, so that we can advance our shared goal of ensuring safe and secure seas across Asia.

As a valued partner, the Republic of Korea reaffirms its unwavering commitment to confronting the challenges ahead and to actively supporting the ReCAAP ISC’s endeavors toward promoting safer and more secure seas.

Once again, I express my heartfelt congratulations on this milestone anniversary and wish continued success and prosperity for the ReCAAP ISC in the years to come.

On behalf of the government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), we would like to extend our deepest congratulations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre, all Contracting Parties and stakeholders on this historic 20^th Anniversary of the ReCAAP. As one of the 14 founding signatories of ReCAAP in 2006, Lao PDR attaches a great importance to our enduring partnership, which has strengthened regional maritime safety and fostered collective resilience against piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.

Lao PDR highly values ReCAAP ISC's unwavering dedication to information sharing, capacity building, and cooperative frameworks, which has been pivotal in safeguarding vital sea lanes. Despite its landlocked status, Lao PDR has actively advanced this mission through forging subregional synergy, in particular through championing Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) collaboration, including the 2023 Phnom Penh Consultative Meeting with Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam, to enhance intelligence coordination and disrupt transnational criminal network; undertaking legal harmonization by enacting the 2016 Law on adopting ReCAAP to align national frameworks with regional standards, strengthening riverine safety along the Mekong to intercept threats before they reach coastal waters; and empowering expertise through participating in ReCAAP's capacity building activities.

Lao PDR commends the Centre's designation as a "Centre of Excellence" in 2018, its role in reducing severe incidents such as the 2025 downgraded threat of abduction of crew in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, and its innovative tools like the Re-VAMP Dashboard for real-time risk mitigation. This underscores the Centre's indispensable leadership. Taking this opportunity, Lao PDR expresses its sincere thanks and deep gratitude to ReCAAP ISC for its continued support and assistance provided to Lao PDR over the past two decades, particularly in building capacity for Lao officials.

Lao PDR reaffirms its commitment to working closely with ReCAAP ISC for safer seas in Asia. Together, we honor two decades of partnership and look toward a future where the seas remain arteries of prosperity for all.

Since its establishment to address piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia, ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) has worked diligently to advance its three core pillars: Information Sharing, Capacity Building, and Cooperative Arrangements. Now, it has steadfastly stood for 20 years. Through the strong capabilities of ReCAAP ISC and the cooperation of its member states, ReCAAP has grown into a trusted and indispensable organisation among maritime stakeholders, an achievement made possible by our collective efforts.

In today’s global economy, maritime trade serves as the backbone of international commerce. In maritime security, threats such as piracy and armed robbery at sea continue to pose significant challenges. ReCAAP ISC has played a vital role in addressing these issues by fostering cooperation among port authorities, shipping companies, coast guards, navies and Information Fusion Centres (IFCs) in the region. Through two decades of engagement, ReCAAP has enabled a safer and more secure maritime environment in Asia. The growing membership of ReCAAP, including both member states and observers, is a testament to the organisation’s operational effectiveness, strong capabilities, progress toward its goals, and the trust it has earned from maritime stakeholders.

As we look ahead, I am confident that ReCAAP will remain committed to enhancing its three core pillars and strive toward a safer maritime domain for all seafarers. It is through our collective dedication and cooperation that ReCAAP will continue to thrive for many more decades to come.

Let this 20^th anniversary stand as a proud milestone and a reaffirmation of our shared mission.

On behalf of the government of the Netherlands I would like to congratulate Chair and members of the Governing Council, Executive Director and staff of the ReCAAP ISC, its partner organisations, and staff of all Focal Points, during the 20^th Anniversary of the ReCAAP. Thank you all for making it a success!

Furthermore, the Government of The Netherlands would like to express its sincere gratitude and appreciation towards the Republic of Singapore, for hosting and sponsoring the ReCAAP ISC, the Governing Council meetings and numerous other sessions and events.

Since the Netherlands joined the ReCAAP in 2010, a lot has changed. The ReCAAP ISC has progressed into a well-established Centre of Excellence for information sharing in combating piracy and armed robbery at sea. The ReCAAP community, guided by the ISC, has helped to bring down the number of piracy incidents in the region through hard work, information sharing, capacity building and international cooperation. Furthermore, the quality and accuracy of reporting and analysis by the ReCAAP ISC is recognised by governments and ship-owners worldwide and seen as an example for others.

However, this is not a time to be complacent: Recent spikes in incidents in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore exemplify that piracy and armed robbery are still major threats to shipping. Therefore, the Government of the Netherlands would like to reiterate its commitment to the fight against piracy in general, and to ReCAAP in particular.

On a personal note: Since I started as Netherlands Governor to ReCAAP in 2014, I have seen many Governors, delegates, staff members and Executive Directors come and go. Though they all had different backgrounds and styles, what never changed was the good cooperation and spirit within the Governing Council, and the trust between partners to work together towards our common goal: safe seas, free from piracy and armed robbery against ships. I am honoured to work with many talented colleagues from all the member states, and I very much enjoy the company.

Wishing everyone fair winds and following seas!

On behalf of the Government of Norway, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre on its 20^th Anniversary.

Norway is honoured to be the first non-Asian member of the agreement to accede to ReCAAP in 2009, and is proud to support ReCAAP in its mandate to promote and enhance cooperation to combat piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.

Norway places significant value on developing international relationships and cooperation with other stakeholders to ensure maritime security and believe ReCAAP plays an important role in ensuring the safety of seafarers and facilitating international trade in the region. As a country with one of the largest merchant fleets in the world, Norway has a clear interest in maritime security and safe transport at sea. ReCAAP provides a platform for developing relationships, cooperation and information sharing, and also provides States and the industry with a clear system of reporting, identifying and responding to maritime incidents.

ReCAAP ISC is a shining example of a successful regional cooperation in the areas of information sharing, capacity building and collaborative efforts to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea. Norway recognizes and appreciates the achievements of ReCAAP over the last 20 years.

The Norwegian government looks forward to another 20 years of cooperation and discussions to ensure that ReCAAP ISC can continue its vital role in regional anti-piracy cooperation, and continue to work together with other States and maritime stakeholders towards the shared goal of preventing piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.

It is my distinct honor to extend warm congratulations as we commemorate the 20^th anniversary of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP ISC). For two decades, ReCAAP ISC has been a catalyst of our maritime domain – a symbol of multilateral cooperation and shared commitment in securing vital sea lanes that connect our nations and drive our economies.

This milestone affirms the enduring strength of regional collaboration in addressing persistent maritime threats. As the first government-to-government agreement of its kind in Asia, ReCAAP ISC has become a vital framework for information sharing, capacity building, and coordinated response to piracy and armed robbery at sea.

Its success stems from the active participation of Contracting Parties and consistent implementation of joint initiatives. Through regular council meetings, focal point training, and incident reporting mechanisms, we have strengthened operational readiness, deepened mutual understanding, and enhanced enforcement capabilities. These efforts demonstrate that united action can effectively counter transnational maritime threats.

Timely and credible information sharing remains central to our success. While we note the rise in incidents in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, we are encouraged by the reduction of crew abduction threats in the Sulu - Celebes Seas to a LOW level. This progress highlights the impact of sustained cooperation, proactive reporting, and coordinated responses.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our non-Contracting Parties who actively participated in ReCAAP activities and supported our mission. Your engagement enriches our efforts and reflects the inclusive spirit of international cooperation that strengthens our mission as we continue to strive for a safe and secure seas.

Maritime security challenges continue to evolve, but our resolve remains firm. As we celebrate another milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to ReCAAP ISC's mission: enhancing regional cooperation through robust information sharing, comprehensive capacity building, and effective cooperative arrangements in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.

Together, we shall continue to sail forward – united in purpose, anchored in trust, and guided by a shared vision of safe and secure seas for future generations. May the next two decades bring even greater achievements in our collective pursuit of maritime safety and prosperity across the Asia-Pacific.

On behalf of Singapore, I extend my warmest congratulations to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) and fellow Contracting Parties on the 20^th anniversary of ReCAAP.

As a founding member of ReCAAP and host country of the ReCAAP ISC, Singapore has witnessed the significant contributions made by ReCAAP to address piracy and armed robbery against ships in the region over the past two decades. Under the able leadership of generations of Executive Directors, the ReCAAP ISC has advanced its mission across its three core pillars of information sharing, capacity building and cooperative arrangements.

Today, ReCAAP has become the go-to source for timely and reliable information on piracy and sea robberies. ReCAAP is also widely recognised as a successful model of multilateral co-operation, and serves as an inspiration for other similar initiatives, such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct in East Africa. ReCAAP’s ability to harness the different expertise and capabilities of its diverse stakeholders – including coast guards, navies, maritime authorities, think-tanks and industry players – toward safer and more secured seas, is highly commendable.

The past 20 years represent a strong foundation upon which ReCAAP can build further progress and innovation in combating piracy and armed robbery against ships. Singapore remains committed to supporting ReCAAP and we look forward to writing the next chapter together!

On behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, I am honoured to extend our warmest congratulations to the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC) on its momentous 20^th Anniversary. As the ReCAAP ISC Governor for Sri Lanka, I express profound gratitude for ReCAAP’s transformative contributions to maritime security across the Asian region since its establishment in 2006. This milestone marks two decades of unwavering dedication to ensuring safe and secure navigation, a cornerstone of global trade and economic prosperity.

The ReCAAP has set a global benchmark for regional cooperation in combating piracy and armed robbery at sea. Its innovative three-pillar approach, Information Sharing, Capacity Building, and Cooperative Arrangements, has fostered unparalleled collaboration among its Contracting Parties. For Sri Lanka, a nation strategically positioned along vital maritime trade routes, ReCAAP’s timely and accurate incident reports have been invaluable.

ReCAAP’s success is rooted in its inclusive engagement with governments, shipping industries and other stakeholders. By recognising the expertise of non-governmental organisations, ReCAAP has ensured its guidance remains practical and relevant. Sri Lanka has benefited immensely from joint endeavours facilitated by ReCAAP, which have strengthened our maritime law enforcement capabilities through capacity building programs and cooperative frameworks.

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting ReCAAP’s mission. As maritime challenges evolve, we are confident that the ISC will continue to innovate and lead, ensuring the region’s seas remain secure for future generations. This 20^th Anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a call to embark on a new chapter of resilience and cooperation. On behalf of Sri Lanka, I extend our deepest appreciation to ReCAAP for its exemplary service and wish the ISC and its partners continued success in the decades to come.

Over the past two decades, the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC) has played a pivotal role in advancing maritime safety across the region. Established to promote collaboration and transparency, ReCAAP ISC functions as a central hub for collecting, analysing, and disseminating information on piracy and sea robbery incidents. Its efforts have significantly enhanced situational awareness and response coordination among member states.

A significant contributor to ReCAAP ISC’s successes is its extensive network of Focal Points, maritime enforcement agencies, and shipping companies, which enables efficient incident reporting and swift dissemination of alerts. This coordinated framework has fostered trust and improved operational collaboration, thereby reinforcing efforts to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea and advancing maritime security, safety, and prosperity.

In addition to facilitating information sharing, ReCAAP ISC has placed significant emphasis on capacity building through targeted workshops, joint exercises, and specialized training programmes. These initiatives have enhanced enforcement capabilities and promoted best practices within legal and operational frameworks, ensuring that member states are well-prepared to address emerging maritime threats, particularly piracy and armed robbery.

Regarding the 20^th anniversary of ReCAAP ISC, on behalf of Thailand Focal Point, I hope that ReCAAP ISC will continue to develop as a regional centre for preventing piracy and armed robbery against ships, and maintain strong relationships with regional states.

On behalf of the United Kingdom, I warmly congratulate the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre on its 20^th Anniversary. For two decades, the Centre has been a cornerstone of regional cooperation, protecting seafarers, safeguarding trade, and strengthening the rules-based order at sea. Its professionalism and impartiality have earned the trust of Contracting Parties and industry alike. The UK is proud to stand with ReCAAP ISC in addressing piracy, armed robbery against ships and emerging maritime threats, and we look forward to building on this partnership to ensure that Asia’s vital sea lanes remain safe, secure, and open for all.

I commend ReCAAP ISC for its remarkable achievements over the past twenty years, and extend my best wishes for continued success in the decades ahead.

Congratulations on the 20^th Anniversary of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP). Since ReCAAP ISC stood up in 2006, it has become an internationally recognized organization that serves as a common platform for information exchange to improve incident responses related to piracy and armed robbery against ships. Your efforts in information exchange and capacity building among Southeast Asian states, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and industry partners has not only earned the ISC the deserved title of Center of Excellence but has influenced global counter piracy regimes contributing to increased safety within our collective maritime shipping lanes.

Effectively addressing piracy and armed robbery at sea continues to be of paramount importance within the global maritime domain. Global GDP supported through ocean shipping ranges between $2-6 trillion annually, 30% of which passes through Southeast Asia. As such, ReCAAP's efforts to strengthen relationships and to promote regional stability and security through its three pillars of Information Sharing, Capacity Building, and Cooperative Agreements remain vital in maintaining the world economies. Thank you for your outstanding work over the past 20 years and we look forward to ReCAAP's continued success for another 20 years and beyond.

On the occasion of the 20^th anniversary of the entry into force of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP), on behalf of the Vietnam Coast Guard, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the leadership, officers, and staff of the ReCAAP ISC.

Over the past 20 years, the ReCAAP ISC has continuously grown and affirmed its vital role in ensuring maritime security and safety in the region and along Asia’s shipping lanes. The tireless efforts and dedication of the ReCAAP Contracting Parties in sharing information, developing cooperative programmes, and conducting capacity building training for maritime law enforcement agencies have significantly contributed to raising awareness, enhancing coordination among maritime enforcement forces, reducing incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, and safeguarding secure, safe, peaceful, and prosperous seas.

As a Focal Point of ReCAAP, the Vietnam Coast Guard has consistently strengthened cooperation, demonstrating its strong sense of responsibility, active sharing of information, and full participation in all activities within the framework of the ReCAAP. We believe that, with determination and solidarity, the ReCAAP ISC will continue to build upon its achievements, expand international cooperation, and bring about tangible benefits and sustainable development in ensuring maritime security and safety.

Once again, congratulations to the ReCAAP ISC and all ReCAAP Contracting Parties for standing together over the past 20 years!