Customs - Abu Dhabi Signs Two Memoranda of Understanding and Cooperation with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

To Develop Bilateral Ties, Exchange of Information and Establish Customs Academy

Abu Dhabi, 08 June 2010: Abu Dhabi Customs, a subsidiary directorate to Department of Finance - Abu Dhabi, signed two memoranda of understanding and cooperation recently with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau. This comes in line with the directives of HH 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 USA.

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

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. In addition it will facilitate the exchange of best practices and techniques of law enforcement and offer full support in prosecution and investigation issues. The Memorandum of Cooperation seeks to enhance the cooperation 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.

During the signing ceremony, HE Al Muhairi said: "Signing these conventions comes in line with the guidance of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to promote and increase channels of cooperation with various countries. The agreements also 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 U.S", HE Al Muhairi added.

For his part, George Morten, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Secretary said: "The Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency is committed to promoting cooperative efforts between the USA and the Emirate of 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".

The Department of Finance - General Directorate of Customs in Abu Dhabi pays great attention to joint agreements with local and regional entities; aiming at enhancing the development of the national economy. It also serves to enhance the use of the best systems protecting society and facilitating customs operations.

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About Department of Finance:
The Department of Finance (DoF) was established in 1962, and plays a vital role in providing all local government entities with the best of breed of financial services. DoF aims at enhancing the prosperity of the Abu Dhabi community by contributing to economic growth, promoting private sector participation, and supporting the efforts of Abu Dhabi government to be one of the top 5 governments in the world. DoF includes 5 main directorates and they are: Government Budgeting, Government Accounting, Information Technology, Customs and General Support Services.

DoF is adopting the latest processes and technology to further strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of its services. In this context, DOF has developed a strategic plan for 2009-2013 that aims to identify efficient ways to finance all Abu Dhabi Government projects. Some strategies outlined in the plan include public-private partnerships, a common and standardized financial framework to ensure financial stability of Abu Dhabi Government, a gradual transition towards a defined decentralized financial-management model, protection of borders and citizens, facilitation of trade, and revenue collection through effective customs.

© Press Release 2010
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