-
Thursday, October 26,2023
To enhance international solidarity and integrate security work for more stable societies in the region.
Saif bin Zayed Presides Over Fifth Ministerial Gathering of International Security Alliance in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE - Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, took the helm during the fifth gathering of interior ministers representing member countries of the International Security Alliance. This momentous occasion unfolded at the Emirates Palace in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
The esteemed International Security Alliance boasts a distinguished roster, featuring The Alliance. The UAE Ministry of Interior serves as the proud host of the Alliance's General Secretariat, further bolstering collaborative international endeavors to combat organized and cross-border crimes, and combat extremism, terrorism, and radicalism in all its manifestations.
In a warm and gracious welcome, Sheikh Saif extended his heartfelt greetings to the esteemed guests and attendees, conveying the salutations of the leadership, government, and the people of the UAE. He underscored the significance of this meeting, which amplifies the collective efforts of nations worldwide and the international community to forge more secure and stable societies. This endeavor hinges on the exchange of collaborative opportunities, shared experiences, and best practices law enforcement.
The Minister emphasized that this ministerial gathering represents a continuation of the Alliance's joint international agenda, firmly entrenched within the framework of strengthening collaboration and uniting forces to ensure the provision of protection and safety. This collective resolve is aimed at tackling crime in all its facets, thus enabling people across the globe to relish the fruits of security and wellbeing.
The meeting witnessed the presence of distinguished figures, including HE Lt. General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of the Interior of the Kingdom of Bahrain; HE Professor Mohamed Fasil, Minister of State for Home Affairs of the Republic of Singapore; HE Dylan Jeschelgus Szegerius, Minister of Justice and Security of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; and HE Gerald Dramanan, Minister of the Interior of the Republic of France. Additionally, HE Matteo Pentedosi, Minister of the Interior of Italy, and HE Fernando Grande Malasca, Minister of the Interior of the Kingdom of Spain, participated remotely via video communication. Expert representatives and officials from the interior ministries of International Security Alliance member countries were also in attendance.
The meeting tackled the latest developments within the International Security Alliance's sphere of activities. This encompassed workshops and training seminars such as "a workshop on post-release procedures for extremists," "a workshop on the use of drones by extremist groups," training on cybercrimes, and a joint anti-drug operation. Furthermore, experts presented their insights on the "Response Model for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Online." This pioneering initiative, designed to combat digital extremism, piqued interest among the attendees, who engaged in an open exchange of ideas. As the global threat landscape continually evolves, this model provides a comprehensive blueprint for nations to adopt a multi-stakeholder approach to address security threats.
The participants unanimously stressed the necessity of sustaining and intensifying joint international action while bolstering collaboration with all stakeholders to explore security solutions and confront organized and cross-border crimes. This commitment arises from their shared vision, underpinned by the belief in the common good and noble aspirations of societies and individuals worldwide, all of whom have the right to experience security and prosperity. They emphasized the importance of harnessing the available capabilities of member states to uphold the values of peace, cultivate tolerance, and promote coexistence among all sects, religions, and nationalities, while combatting intolerance and racism.
The attendees collectively endorsed the significance of implementing vital projects and initiatives that enhance integration, interdependence, and contribute to regional stability and prosperity. Sharing expertise and experiences, along with adopting the best international practices in the domains of security and law enforcement, were highlighted as essential steps toward sustaining the security process and achieving favorable results and indicators.
In a fitting conclusion to the meeting, the Interior Ministers issued a joint statement:
"As members of the International Security Alliance, we are unwavering in our commitment to the Alliance and our fellow members, united in our quest to bolster national and international security worldwide. We embrace the opportunities and expertise garnered during this meeting, fortifying our partnership in addressing pressing international security concerns, with a focal point on dynamic issues aligning with the priorities of our Member States. We express our gratitude for the results achieved through the Alliance's projects and operations and renew our support for activities. Our collective efforts in countering violent extremism, raising global awareness of this critical issue, and enhancing international and inter-agency cooperation will persist. The International Security Alliance will remain steadfast in addressing security challenges that concern all member countries, such as transnational organized crime, border control, extremism, and violent extremism, allowing us to dynamically respond to emerging security threats."
Before the start of the meeting, Lt. General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, accompanied by guest ministers from the countries of the International Security Alliance, was keen to meet with representatives of international organizations and bodies participating in the seventh edition of the Interpol Dialogue, which is hosted by the UAE. The recent meeting discussed the importance of communication. To enhance joint international action and coordination, in the presence of representatives of INTERPOL, the Council of Arab Interior Ministers, the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, the Gulf Police Service, the African Criminal Police Organization (AFRIPOL), the Latin American Police Community Organization (AMERIPOL), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEANAPOL) and the relevant executive agency. Crime control and security (IMPACS) and some other organisations.