The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, convened a high-level conference on more effective and sustainable aviation security in Montreal, Canada, Wednesday.

The conference was attended by more than 700 ministers and senior officials representing 135 countries and 27 international organizations. Participants were expected to reach consensus on coordinated, risk-based new solutions for airports, airlines and passengers.

Roberto Kobeh Gonzalez, President of the ICAO Council, said in his opening address that as terrorist threats evolve, the industry must continually reinforce strategies and improve collaboration so that aviation remains a secure means of moving people and goods quickly and affordably.

"The comprehensive sharing of passenger information and other data, in conjunction with advanced risk analyses and the latest screening innovations, point us to a future where aviation can be as secure as it is today but less obtrusive to industry and passengers," he said.

Among other topics, the delegates will also discuss the threat posed by insiders such as airport and airline staff, the evolution of ICAO's aviation security audit process, assistance to member states experiencing security deficiencies and enhancing the security of passports.

ICAO, with headquarters in Montreal, was created in 1944 to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. It sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection, and serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 191 member states.

The conference will end on Friday.