Media Release

FA61 -  5 June 2003

Terrorism fallout strategies

The ASEAN Regional Forum workshop on managing the consequences of a major terrorist attack has identified strategies for practical cooperation in the event of an attack involving chemical, biological or radiological weapons and laid the basis for on-going regional dialogue.

The meeting in Darwin on 3-5 June drew together experts in emergency response, civil defence and law enforcement as well as foreign affairs and defence officials from 17 Asia-Pacific countries.  The United Nations and Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre were also represented.

Australia and Singapore co-chaired the meeting. A co-chairmen’s summary of the outcomes will be presented to ASEAN Regional Forum Ministers at their annual meeting in Phnom Penh on 18 June.

The meeting identified regional capabilities in urban search and rescue, the management of structural collapse and capacities to respond to chemical, biological and radiological (CBR) attacks.  Such capacities include expertise and facilities for medical treatment, decontamination and forensic investigation.

The workshop initiated a register of relevant regional contacts and operational and management capabilities.

Opportunities for future cooperation in key response areas were also explored and the co-chairmen’s summary is expected to recommend further dialogue and practical steps for regional cooperation.

Media inquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) +61 02 6277 7500 / Julie McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555