The current EU maritime safety and security policy is focused in the research
by supporting and financing an important number of EU research projects in this
area. At the other hand the Asian countries seem to start following the same
approach by participating in projects and initiatives such as the BEST project
(Bangkok/ Laem Chabang Efficient and Secure Trade) and the STAR initiative
(Security Scheme in APEC Region) in cooperation with other countries outside
Asia and especially the United States that has an important background in safety
and security issues