Piracy conference urges public-private solutions

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - Diplomats and business leaders at a Dubai conference are pushing for stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors in combating piracy off the coast of Somalia.
A statement issued at the end of the two-day counterpiracy event Thursday called for a "comprehensive approach" against pirates that includes national governments, international organizations and the global maritime industry.
It was the second year in a row that Dubai has hosted a counterpiracy conference. Organizers say this year's event attracted senior government officials from more than 40 countries, along with representatives from United Nations agencies and executives from dozens of maritime industry companies.
The United Arab Emirates is playing an increasingly active role in fighting piracy. Last month the UAE convicted 10 captured pirates and sentenced them to life behind bars.
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