US and Yemen work together on lifting air cargo ban

THE US and Yemeni governments will work together on air security and lifting of air cargo ban between the countries following a foiled terrorist bomb plot sent from the troubled Arab country.

US deputy ambassador Elizabeth Richard met with Yemeni Transport Minister Khalid al-Wazir in Sana'a to discuss security improvements since last November's visit by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) highlighted the airport's outdated systems.

Since its visit the TSA set out a plan to develop a screening programme in line with IATA and ICAO standards, and train airport staff on new equipment it provided, the Yemeni news agency, SABA.

Security measures in progress at Sana'a International Airport include holding cargo for 48 hours before shipment, scanning by explosives detectors, and X-ray and hand searches.

It is hoped that by working "a common goal of ensuring that air cargo transport is both efficient and safe" bilateral trade will grow, said embassy spokeswoman Deborah Smith. 
(Source:www.schednet.com)