Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, launched the new Customs Affairs Strategy 2021-2024, during a ceremony to mark the World Customs Day.
The Interior Minister congratulated President of Customs, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, for winning international trust through his appointment as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
He appreciated the efforts being exerted to develop the Customs Affairs, calling for highlighting the customs accomplishments to society.
He explained that the Customs Affairs is part of the main key lines, and its affiliates are competent and trustworthy. “I’m looking forward to implementing the new strategy in the coming phase through the ongoing efforts.”
The minister noted that Bahrain had gained a good reputation in dealing with coronavirus pandemic through programmes enforced under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince Prime Minister.
He highlighted that studies had proven the efficiency of operations, and the team assigned to implement the vision and plans that succeeded in controlling the fast-spreading risks.
“The threat continues to exist as we aren’t isolated from the world,” he said.
The Interior Minister said: “There is a success story of how Bahrain dealt with the pandemic, giving us the confidence to achieve the goals through well-studied plans and determination.”
President of Customs hailed the efforts of various sectors in fighting the pandemic, valuing all personnel working at customs ports for their commitment and sacrifices for the nation’s security.
He also valued the Interior Minister’s approach for the continuous efforts to achieve excellence within available resources. He hailed the work environment of the Customs Affairs that contributed to winning various awards and recognitions.
The new strategy includes three new strategic goals, and it follows the previous strategic plan, implemented from 2017 to 2021 with 100% enforcement and many accomplishments.
The new strategy and its goals and initiatives were highlighted in a film displayed during the ceremony, along with implemented projects.
The Interior Minister honoured distinguished customs employees, and wished them all the best.