Abu Dhabi Customs, US Department of Homeland Security discuss stronger relations

Abu Dhabi, Dec 13, 2011 (WAM) - The Abu Dhabi Customs Administration (ADCA) recently received a delegation from the US Department of Homeland Security headed by George Morton, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Secretary. ADCA said the visit is in line with its efforts to enhance international cooperation. The delegation was welcomed by Saeed Ahmed Al Muhairi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Customs, Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) and ADCA officials. Among the main highlights of the visit was a tour to HCT's Women College, a tour to the Abu Dhabi Customs Institute where participants were briefed on its various curricula. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Secretary also had a chance to meet the institute's professors and teaching staff. During the visit, the two sides discussed ways to strengthen the UAE-US bilateral relations, in particular communication between ADCA and the US Department of Homeland Security to tap the US department's expertise and enhance knowledge of UAE national employees of international customs best practices. Commenting on the visit, Saeed Ahmed Al Muhairi said these meetings reflect the commitment of the Abu Dhabi Customs Administration's commitment to continuous development of its employees' skills in line with its strategy to provide the best customs service possible in support of the growth of our national economy. "ADCA plays an important part in maintaining national security and facilitating trade relations with other countries," Al Muhairi added. "ADCA is committed to maintaining communication channels and to promoting the exchange of expertise. It is committed to maintaining communications with the advanced nations to tap their expertise in the fields of customs and facilitating trade activities across borders." The US delegation praised ADCA's efforts to further improve its employees' skills as well as its initiative to promote cooperation with the US federal department. In 2010, ADCA signed an agreement with the US Department of Homeland Security to launch a customs academy and to set up the Customs Institute in Abu Dhabi. In 2011, the Institute conducted training programs for over 1700 employees. These included courses for customs officers and courses on administration and safety. - Emirates News Agency, WAM