The Security Service of Ukraine and the Information and Security Service of the Republic of Moldova have agreed to strengthen cooperation on data exchange and risk analysis at the state border. This was an underlying point at a trilateral meeting of special services and the European Union Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM).

In particular, the participants discussed methods of combating cross-border crime and illicit trafficking in firearms, explosives, precursors, tobacco products, etc. The interaction of the two special services will make it possible to combat such crimes more effectively.

Representatives of Ukraine and Moldova stressed that continuous interaction and exchange of information on existing risks and threats in the border area will significantly improve the security situation at the national and regional levels.

"The trilateral meeting will enhance the information exchange and increase the effectiveness of responding to the challenges faced by both services on the Moldovan-Ukrainian border. At the same time, I would like to reiterate EUBAM's readiness to provide strategic, analytical and operational support, "said EUBAM Head of Mission General Slavomir Pihor.

To remind, the SBU officers are involved in joint special operations together with Moldovan and EU law enforcement officers and are members of other cross-border working groups. In addition, the SBU is part of the interdepartmental regional analytical group for regular risk and threat assessment in the Odesa region.

Note:

EUBAM was launched on December 1^st, 2005. The Mission works with the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine to harmonize border control, customs and trade standards and procedures with those in the EU Member States. The SBU's cooperation with EUBAM began in December 2006.

EUBAM not only monitors risks, including at the Transnistrian border, but also assist Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities to combat smuggling, illegal migration and human trafficking, etc.