NSPD 41/HSPD 13 Main >> Supporting Plans >> International Outreach and Coordination Strategy

Among the specific actions directed by the President in NSPD-41/HSPD-13 was the development of a comprehensive plan to solicit international support for an improved global maritime security framework.

The International Outreach and Coordination Strategy to Enhance Maritime Security (PDF, 47 pages - 226 KB) was developed by the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretaries of Defense, Commerce, Transportation, Homeland Security, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other U.S. government agencies, and in consultation with appropriate private-sector entities and other organizations.  This document is one of eight plans created to support the National Strategy for Maritime Security, as directed by NSPD-41/HSPD-13.

Gaining International Support for a Secure Maritime Domain

The Department of State’s International Outreach and Coordination Strategy to Enhance Maritime Security sets forth a plan to coordinate the United States’ international outreach efforts regarding maritime security initiatives and to solicit international support for an improved global maritime security framework. This document establishes two strategic goals: create a coordinated policy for U.S. government maritime security activities with foreign governments, international and regional organizations, and the private sector; and enhance outreach to foreign governments, international and regional organizations, private-sector partners, and the public abroad to solicit support for improved global maritime security.

• The security of the Maritime Domain is a global issue. The U.S. is committed to working closely with our allies and partners around the world to ensure that lawful private and public activities in the maritime domain are protected against attack and criminal or otherwise unlawful or hostile exploitation.

• The Plan will promote an effective global maritime security framework. This framework will harmonize free trade and maritime security, will uphold sovereignty, strengthen economies, enhance international partnerships, and secure the maritime domain.

• To safeguard the maritime domain, the U.S. must forge cooperative partnerships and alliances with other nations. It must also partner with public and private stakeholders in the international community.

• To foster stronger partnerships within the international community, the U.S. must have a coordinated and consistent approach to building support and cooperation worldwide to reinforce global maritime security.

• The U.S. is not alone in recognizing the vital importance of securing the maritime domain. Other nations have also begun to focus on the importance of maritime security. Security must be a team effort.

• The U.S. will seek early dialogue with international partners when developing maritime security policy initiatives, and will maintain regular contact to discuss implementation and ensure effectiveness. We will propose ideas, and encourage others to do the same. We will speak frankly. We will also listen carefully. We will work together.

Next Steps

Through the National Security Council/Homeland Security Council Maritime Security Policy Coordinating Committee and the Maritime Security Working Group, the Department of State will coordinate and support other Departments and Agencies in developing and communicating a unified and consistent message regarding global maritime security and U.S. maritime security programs and initiatives to foreign partners.