The specific objectives of the proposed SAP are to: 1. Ensure effective co-ordination and support of the ballast water related activities through the establishment of an adequate institutional framework; 2. Increase awareness on the potential dangers associated with the transfer of HAOP, notably through ballast water;
3. Build capacity and provide training to address ballast water management matters at the regional and national levels; 4. Develop and implement regional and country specific programmes to identify
sensitive areas and activities that may be at risk from marine bio-invasions, and ensure their protection;
5. Facilitate the necessary regional coordination and co-operation required for the development of legal, policy and institutional arrangements at the national level to address the issue of ballast water, including the promotion of the accession to the BWM Convention;
6. Develop and implement compliance monitoring and enforcement programmes to ensure the successful implementation of the BWM Convention; 7. Encourage regional co-operation to ensure harmonized implementation of the standardized regime for ballast water management; and, 8. Identify any opportunities for self-financing of ballast water related activities to ensure sustainable implementation of the international requirements and the protection of the coastal and marine resources at the regional level.