GOVERNOR OPENS ASIA-PACIFIC HOMELAND SECURITY SUMMIT
October 9 - Governor Lingle delivered opening remarks at the fifth annual Asia-Pacific Homeland Security Summit and Exposition. The summit brought together government leaders, senior business executives, and security, technology and anti-terrorism experts to discuss solutions to public and private sector security threats in the Asia-Pacific region.
"Homeland security is a critical issue," the Governor told delegates gathered from around the world, adding "the threats are very real in our region and around the world. This summit allows an opportunity for an open, full and candid dicussion while learning and developing new ideas."
Governor Lingle also outlined initiatives the State of Hawai`i has undertaken to protect residents and visitors, including the development of a comprehensive pandemic flu plan.
Earlier this year, the State of Hawai`i announced the State Partnership Program (SPP) with the Republic of Indonesia. SPP is a unique, mutually beneficial security cooperation program that is conducted in close coordination with the U.S. Pacific Command in Hawai`i. It encompasses three focus areas – military to military, military to civilian and civilian to civilian relationships.
This year's summit focuses on the Asia-Pacific region's changing environment, the maritime balance of power in Asia-Pacific, keeping oceans safe, and security technology.
