Brussels: Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of Customs, and Megan Shaw, Head of International Customs and Borders at HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), have signed an agreement to enhance customs cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom. This agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Customs Organisation Council meetings held in Brussels, Belgium.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad emphasized that the agreement reflects the strong historical relations between Bahrain and the UK. He highlighted the mutual commitment to enhancing and developing customs cooperation in line with global developments and requirements. This initiative aims to facilitate the movement of legitimate trade, strengthen supply chain security, and support economic development in both countries.
Shaikh Ahmed further noted that Bahrain continues to strengthen its international partnerships with both international and Arab countries, as well as specialized international organizations. The Kingdom is committed to adopting best international practices and developing its national customs system, thereby enhancing Bahrain's competitiveness and position as a regional hub for trade and logistics services.
The agreement aims to support the implementation of existing cooperation frameworks between the two nations and to enhance the exchange of expertise and best practices in customs affairs. This will contribute to the development of institutional performance and the efficiency of customs work.
Additionally, the agreement seeks to develop channels for regular communication and the exchange of information and views on issues related to customs legislation and its implementation. This supports the achievement of the common goals of the two friendly countries.
The joint declaration also outlines plans to establish a joint technical committee comprising representatives from both sides. This committee will coordinate activities and programmes related to customs cooperation and will organize study visits and collaborative activities to facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices in areas of common interest.