Manama, Jan. 25 (BNA): Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, delivered the following speech marking the International Customs Day.
"The Kingdom of Bahrain joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Customs Day, which is marked annually on January 26. It is a good occasion to affirm the security role of Customs Affairs and efforts to protect and promote investments for their importance to the national economy. Customs Affairs is an essential part of the security strategy of the Interior Ministry through modern technology to protect borders and develop customs capabilities through the facilitation of travel, trade and society protection. The efforts meet the goals of the comprehensive development process, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Security and general safety protection come as part of various approaches, including coordination between security authorities and Customs Affairs to reinforce border security. Preventative measures to limit trafficking and risks require full vigilance, law enforcement and strategic planning by determining goals and procedures.
The total number of confiscations and violations registered by Customs Affairs in 2022 reached 6,230, an increase of 31% from 2021. This reflects the national capabilities and professionalism in the use of modern technology. The launch of the Customs Affairs strategy of 2021-2024 and its strategic goals come to meet government action plans and the Economic Vision 2030, strengthening customs work and building capabilities in facing challenges. It also includes strengthening partnerships with the business community, based on the Kingdom of Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030, which motivates government and private institutions to take practical steps to attract investments. Therefore, Customs Affairs seeks to keep up advancement through signing international agreements and participating in conferences to benefit from international expertise and enhance the effectiveness of customs performance.
On International Customs Day, we assert the significance of future planning within the available potentials and ever-increasing challenges to look toward the best and overcome hinders to providing high-quality services through digital transformation expansion and development in the exchange of information and supervisory mechanisms. These efforts reinforce trade, security and general safety, and the role of Customs Affairs in supporting the national economy. It has succeeded through its outstanding performance in reinforcing the active role of Bahrain in international organisations, leading to the winning of the President of Customs, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa of the international trust by being elected as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation Council. This reflects the prestigious position of Bahrain and its hardworking nationals, who can fill high positions in international organisations. I hailed the Customs President’s efforts to develop customs services and strategy. I thank all Customs Affairs affiliates for their competency and discipline in carrying out their customs role through dedication and expertise. I wish Customs Affairs further excellence and a pioneering role under the leadership of HM the King."
WHQ