NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – The Bahamas government says the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to counter-piracy between The Bahamas and the United States will play a critical role in maintaining as well as increasing the country’s position as a leading global Flag State. Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said the initiative would also strengthen The Bahamas’ enforcement reach in volatile shipping areas such as the coast of Somalia and that the country could also benefit from additional economic and national security aspects of the agreement. “This agreement is very important to The Bahamas particularly because we have so many vessels that are potentially at risk and we appreciate the cooperation (with the United States) that I think inures to the benefit of both states,” Mrs. Hanna-Martin said.