Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Customs Committee of Uzbekistan held a meeting with Oliver Stolpe, Head of the Regional Office of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Uzbekistan.

The cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UNODC has proven to be highly effective in enhancing regional security. Over the past four years, the two sides have built a constructive partnership through regional programs focused on passenger and cargo flow control, as well as canine services and forensic expertise.

More than 100 seminars, trainings, and meetings have been conducted, resulting in the upskilling of 645 customs officers. The establishment of real-time information-sharing channels at border points across the country has significantly expanded the network of joint offices, which are instrumental in combating the trafficking of narcotic drugs, precursors, and psychotropic substances. Currently, there are 8 such offices and 13 mobile interagency teams operating nationwide.

Port control groups are active at customs posts including Chuqursoy Technical Branch, Yallama, Alat, Ayritom, and Aviayuklar. Their operations have led to the prevention of 162 cases of illegal cargo movement valued at US$10.2 million, including the seizure of several tons of narcotics.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the establishment of a joint training center at the Central Customs Laboratory, which is recognized as a regional institution of the World Customs Organization (WCO). They also reviewed plans to create an air cargo control group at Samarkand International Airport and explored additional areas for collaboration.

Following the talks, the UNODC delegation visited the Central Customs Laboratory and the Customs Clearance Center to gain insights into ongoing activities.