Abu Dhabi Customs said it has signed two MoUs with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau to develop bilateral ties, exchange of information and establish customs academy.

The MoU aims to enhance the exchange of information between the parties to support customs investigations, applying and managing customs laws, sharing information in a direct and live way, said a statement from Abu Dhabi Customs, a subsidiary directorate to Department of Finance – Abu Dhabi.

In addition it will facilitate the exchange of best practices and techniques of law enforcement and offer full support in prosecution and investigation issues.

This comes in line with the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of the Department of Finance – Abu Dhabi. It also comes in the framework of enhancing the bilateral relations and the exchange of information between Abu Dhabi and US.

During a special ceremony held at Immigration and Customs Enforcement Headquarters in Washington, the two agreements were signed by Saeed Ahmed Al Muhairi, director general of the Abu Dhabi Customs, and George Morton, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Secretary.

The agreement seeks to enhance the co-operation and friendship levels between the two countries in the fields of combating crimes related to violations of customs laws. It also aims at providing technical assistance and consultancy in establishing and developing Abu Dhabi Customs Academy in the Department of Finance.

Al Muhairi said the agreements show Abu Dhabi Customs’ continuous commitment to applying all tools and best global practices and training programs; keeping in mind the importance of protecting UAE’s borders and the security of nationals.

“The agreements with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement are of particular importance, given the vast geographical representation of this authority. It has more than 63 representative offices around the world, and is considered the official representative of US Department of Homeland Security outside of the US,' he added.

Morten said the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency was committed to promoting co-operative efforts between the US and Abu Dhabi; especially in the fields of prosecution of crime in addition to the violations of the customs laws and immigration across borders.

'We hope that the future success of Abu Dhabi Customs Academy will be an example to be replicated in neighboring countries; an achievement reflecting the firm and continuous commitment between us,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service