Artikel 12

1. In the application of this Agreement, the Parties concerned shall take due account of the need not to endanger the safety of life at sea, the security of the vessel and cargo and not to prejudice any commercial or legal interest. In particular, they shall take into account:
a. the dangers involved in boarding a vessel at sea, and give consideration to whether this could be more safely done at the vessel's next port of call;
b. the need to minimise any interference with the legitimate commercial activities of a vessel;
c. the need to avoid unduly detaining or delaying a vessel;
d. the need to restrict the use of force to the minimum necessary to ensure compliance with the instructions of the intervening State.
2. The use of firearms against, or on, the vessel shall be reported as soon as possible to the flag State.
3. The death, or injury, of any person aboard the vessel shall be reported as soon as possible to the flag State. The authorities of the intervening State shall fully co-operate with the authorities of the flag State in any investigation the flag State may hold into any such death or injury.