EUBAM head highlights achievements in all areas of activity at Moldo-Ukrainian border

The Head of the EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) to Moldova and Ukraine, Gen. Ferenc Banfi, highlighted the significant achievements in all areas of activity at the Moldo-Ukrainian border, during the presentation of the Mission’s Annual Report for 2007 at the EUBAM Advisory Board meeting, which took place on March 11 in Odessa. According to Ferenc Banfi, large numbers of items of computer hardware and software were delivered in 2007 and early part of 2008 for the facilitation of the exchanges of information needed for effective risk analysis. The Customs Services of Moldova and Ukraine began regular on-line exchange of pre-arrival information, which will help them to detect and prevent smuggling. The official also reported the Mission’s assistance with implementation of regulations permitting companies in the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova to engage in legitimate trade activities. According to him, by the end of 2007, 380 companies from that region were registered and able to obtain access to preferential trade schemes. The Head of Mission stressed the importance of anti-corruption measures, the development of a service culture, and effective public information strategies, to inform the people and companies who use the borders of their rights and obligations. Ferenc Banfi also reported the latest developments in the BOMMOLUK Project, the first implementation stage of which ended in December 2007. The component on exchange of pre-arrival information between the Moldovan and Ukrainian Customs Services has been completed. EUBAM has provided technical assistance valued at more than €100,000, including training for technicians from Moldova and Ukraine. The last deliveries of procured equipment under BOMMOLUK 1 are taking place. BOMMOLUK 2 began in 2008 and will focus mainly on the establishment of the Regional Training Centre of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in Kotovsk, as well as border infrastructure in Moldova, the provision of equipment to the partner services, and the organization of study tours.