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), signed an agreement to enhance customs cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom, on the sidelines of the World Customs Organisation Council meetings held in Brussels, the Kingdom of Belgium.
Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad said that the signing of the agreement reflects the strong historical relations between Bahrain and the UK. He said it also reflects the mutual commitment to enhance and develop customs cooperation in line with global developments and requirements, contributing to facilitating the movement of legitimate trade, strengthening supply chain security, and supporting economic development in both countries.
He noted that the Kingdom continues to strengthen its international partnerships with international and Arab countries and specialised international organisations, based on its approach to adopting best international practices and developing the national customs system, in a manner that enhances 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 both sides and to enhance the exchange of expertise and best practices in customs affairs, thereby contributing to the development of institutional performance and the efficiency of customs work.
It also aims to develop channels for regular communication and the exchange of information and views on issues related to customs legislation and its implementation, supporting the achievement of the common goals of the two friendly countries.
The joint declaration also includes the direction to establish a joint technical committee comprising representatives from both sides. The committee will coordinate activities and programmes related to customs cooperation and organise study visits and collaborative activities that facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices in areas of common interest.
