Manama: General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, inaugurated the first Middle East International Border Management and Technology Conference, organised by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with the International Border Management and Technologies Association (IBMATA), with the participation of senior officials, experts, and specialists from law enforcement, customs, immigration, international organisations, and leading technology companies.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the minister delivered a keynote address in which he expressed pride in hosting this important event in the Kingdom of Bahrain for the first time, noting that the conference represents a significant milestone in strengthening regional and international security and technological cooperation, and establishing a platform for constructive dialogue and the exchange of expertise in border security and advanced technologies.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for his vision that has placed the citizen at the centre of development and made security and stability the foundation of Bahrain's modern renaissance. He also extended appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, whose continues to lead the development, innovation and government excellence across all sectors.
The Interior Minister highlighted that the summit is convened amid rapid technological transformation and evolving security challenges that increasingly impact border management and societal stability. He noted that border security today extends beyond land, sea, and air domains to include the virtual environment, which has become a conduit for attempts to undermine values, economic systems, and national security, underscoring the need to update legislation and enhance cooperation to address these threats.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah emphasised that modern border management relies on artificial intelligence (AI), big-data analytics, smart surveillance systems, and advanced cybersecurity solutions, enabling a shift from traditional monitoring to proactive and predictive security models. He stressed that technology achieves its full potential only through qualified human resources capable of applying it responsibly and effectively.
He reaffirmed the importance of joint efforts to address cross-border terrorism, organised crime, money-laundering, irregular migration, and smuggling of narcotics and prohibited materials, as well as cyber and digital threats. He emphasised the need for strengthened cooperation, information-sharing, and mutual trust among national, regional, and international institutions.
The minister pointed to Bahrain's advanced experience in developing border systems and integrating modern technologies to facilitate passenger and cargo movement while maintaining the highest levels of safety and security.
He expressed appreciation to all personnel working in border-security agencies for their dedication, and extended thanks to the IBMATA and all contributors and participants, wishing them success.
Following the opening, the minister toured the exhibition held alongside the conference, which showcases the latest systems and technologies in border-security and travel and trade data-analysis. He praised the innovations presented, noting their contribution to enhancing performance and supporting advanced border-management solutions.
Representatives from more than 22 countries are taking part in the summit, which aims to strengthen international cooperation and exchange expertise in trade facilitation and risk management. The event focuses on advancing trade and travel processes, integrated border management, optimal use of data and digital identity solutions, and the adoption of modern systems and technologies to enhance the efficiency and security of border operations. The programme also includes expert panel sessions highlighting best practices and successful international experiences in border security.