Ambassador James F. Moriarty’s Remarks at ATA Maritime Port and Harbor Security Management Course Graduation

November 12, 2009

Commodore Aurangzeb, Commander, School of Maritime Warfare and Tactics;
Course participants;
Ladies and gentlemen:

Assalaam aleikum and good morning. It is a pleasure to be here for the graduation ceremony of this important course.

Friendly relations between the United States and Bangladesh go back almost four decades. U.S. interests in Bangladesh revolve around three mutually reinforcing principles, the “three D's”: democracy, development and the denial of space to terrorism.

As Bangladesh approaches its 40th anniversary of independence, the United States wants to build upon our close ties. The United States stands ready to assist Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen democracy and promote economic prosperity. Through these efforts, Bangladesh can realize the hopes and dreams of its citizens and build a better and brighter future for its children.

I am pleased that the Bangladesh government is committed to the same goals. Just as important, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her cabinet have repeatedly stated that the Bangladesh government will actively combat terrorism. Bangladeshi security and law enforcement personnel – you - are an important part of this equation.

The United States is a steadfast supporter of Bangladesh's efforts to deny space to terrorists and extremists. We provide law enforcement assistance, training, and equipment that works to counter terrorists and other extremists. We believe it is critical that those protecting this country from terrorists have the ability and knowledge to coordinate and deliver real-time, actionable, and tactical intelligence to field-level security and law enforcement teams.

This Maritime Port and Harbor Security Management Course that you have just completed represents a key step forward in making Bangladesh safer and more secure. With the knowledge you have gained from this course, you will enhance Bangladesh's capacity to protect and manage its maritime assets against the threat of terrorism and natural disasters. You have learned key concepts that will help you ensure port security - everything from human rights to command and control operations. I expect you all will use what you have learned to safeguard your ports, and by so doing, your country.

In closing, let me salute you for your willingness to dedicate your lives to making your country safer and more secure. Rest assured that, as you pursue this work, will you have a friend and ally in the United States. Thank you.

*As prepared for delivery