US signs 4-nation accord to save the Titanic

The United States will join with Britain, Canada and France in new efforts to preserve the 92-year-old wreck where renewed damage has been reported.

"Under the agreement, the Titanic is designated as an international maritime memorial, recognizing the men, women and children who perished and whose remains should be given appropriate respect," a State Department statement said.

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The four countries started negotiating a deal in 1997, it added. Britain signed the accord in November 2003 and it becomes effective once two countries sign it.

"Parties will also protect the scientific, cultural and historic significance of the wreck by regulating, within their jurisdiction, dives to the Titanic shipwreck, including the hull, cargo and other artifacts at the wreck site," the statement said.