Malta to get detector from US to stem nuclear proliferation
Malta and the USA have signed an agreement to improve a cooperative effort to detect, deter, and interdict illicit smuggling of nuclear and other radioactive material.
The signing of the agreement between US Ambassador Douglas Kmiec and Malta Customs’ director Joseph Brincat was presided over by finance minister Tonio Fenech.
The agreement between Malta and the US paves the way for the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) to work with Malta Customs and other local government agencies to install radiation detection equipment and associated infrastructure at the port of Marsaxlokk. This cooperative agreement will also provide for training of Maltese officials on the use of the equipment and for equipment maintenance for a specified period.
Tonio Fenech welcomed this agreement, defining it as further recognition of the healthy relationship between Malta and the United States. “Malta recognizes the need to continue improving its security capability. Malta forms part of Schengen area and is also in the US Visa Waiver Programme. This facilitates travel and business flows. However, this also increases Malta’s responsibilities to the EU and the global community at large.”
Ambassador Douglas Kmiec said the US was committee to securing “only authorized and appropriate access to nuclear and radioactive material to prevent a terrorist attack of unimaginable proportions.”
“Malta has one of the best customs operations in Europe, and this agreement will only increase Malta’s ability to continue its critical role in maritime shipping and global security. The United States appreciates Malta’s partnership in this important mission.”
The US government’s support for Malta customs dates back to 2003 when the US government donated the Vehicle and Container Inspection System (VACIS) to enhance customs operations at the Freeport.
