UNODC-WCO Container Control Programme conducts mentorship programme for Port Control Units in Kyrgyzstan

Restrictions and quarantine measures posed by coronavirus infection COVID-19 world-wide affected the conduct of a full-time training within the framework of the UNODC and the World Customs Organization (WCO) Global Container Control Programme (CCP).

 

To prevent the use of the cargo supply chain by organized criminal groups for illegal purposes, and to ensure the continuity of the programme implementation, UNODC-WCO/CCP adopted training strategy to new circumstances and developed eLearning modules, online theoretical training and remote mentorship programme.

In this context, UNODC Regional Office for Central Asia conducted a remote mentorship programme on 11-12 May 2021 for the officers of the State Customs Service under the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, the members of Port Control Units of the Central Apparatus in Bishkek and Southwestern Customs in Osh in line with CCP Work Plan of Online Activities for 2021 for the Kyrgyz Republic.

The training delivered by an experienced WCO mentor aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of the members of Port Control Units in identifying and suppressing high-risk consignments, promoting regional practical cooperation among PCUs, as well as utilizing of modern Customs control techniques.

“The remote mentorship is a unique communication opportunity during COVID-19 pandemic period and I’m sure that the acquired knowledge will further enhance officers’ ability in effective Customs control. We stand ready to further support the Kyrgyz Customs Service in achieving the best possible results in identifying and suppressing high-risk consignments”, stated Mr. Batyr Geldiyev, CCP Regional Programme Coordinator in Central Asia.

Mr. Almaz Saliev, CCP PCU National focal from the Central Apparatus of the State Customs Service of the Kyrgyz Republic stressed that “this mentorship, even in remote mode, is crucial and important for the Kyrgyz Customs, and will further enhance the knowledge and skills of the Kyrgyz Customs officers”.

During a two-day online session held for PCUs based in Bishkek and Osh, Customs officers discussed a range of pressing issues: countering illicit trade in strategic goods, drugs and counterfeit products, use of electronic seals and seals manipulation; falsification of shipping documents, information exchange on high risk consignments and  X-ray image interpretation.

UNODC--WCO Global Container Control Programme aims to build capacity in countries seeking to improve risk management, supply chain security and trade facilitation in seaports, land-borders and airports to prevent the cross-border movement of illicit goods.

The CCP Regional Segment for Central Asia is funded by the Government of Japan and the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and the Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Programme.

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For more information, please contact Vasilina Brazhko (Ms.)

UNODC Communication and PR Specialist in Central Asia

At +996775987817 WhatsApp or Telegam or by

e-mail: vasilina.brazhko[at]un.org