form
the basis for the recognition of AEOs at a multilateral
level. As regards suppression of piracy and armed
robbery, positive developments were noted in the
waters off the coast of Somalia and the wider western
Indian Ocean. However, concern remained about the
seafarers still being held hostage. A downward trend
of attacks in the Gulf of Guinea was also observed,
indicating that international, regional and national efforts
were beginning to take effect. Progress was also made
at ILO and IMO regarding issues related to seafarers’
fair treatment in the event of a maritime accident as well
as to the issuance and recognition of SIDs.