A new agreement between Interpol and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will see enhanced cooperation between the two organisations in combating crime and terrorism across the region and beyond.
With different countries and regions around the world developing their own strategies to combat terrorism, in particular the use of the Internet to radicalise individuals and coordinate attacks, Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Secretary-General of the GCC, said it was vital to work more closely with Interpol for a more cohesive strategy.
“To address the global threats of crime and terrorism, we need a prompt and strategic response, and it is here that we see our cooperation with Interpol as essential in identifying the potential security gaps and working together to close them,” said Dr Al Zayani who signed the agreement which focuses on aligning activities between Interpol and GCCPOL, the policing arm of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
“This agreement will provide significant support to our region, not only in security and policing terms but also in reaching out to other involved agencies and entities to raise awareness and see action on the ground,” added Dr Al Zayani.
During the visit of Dr Al Zayani and his delegation to the Interpol General Secretariat headquarters, developing interoperability between the Interpol and GCCPOL communications systems was also highlighted in order to exchange critical police information.
Interpol Secretary-General Jürgen Stock said the complexity of the current threat landscape meant it was essential for regional and global security efforts to be closely streamlined.
“The threats facing the Gulf region, and indeed Interpol's entire membership of 190 countries, are dynamic and interconnected in ways which no single national or regional authority can address on its own,” said Stock.
“Interpol’s unique global role in law enforcement means by streamlining regional efforts with international action, we can close security loopholes and work with member countries to identify and tackle potential threats in a more efficient and effective way,” added the Interpol chief.
Lieutenant Colonel Mubarak Alkhyeli, Director of GCCPOL, welcomed the agreement as a stepping stone towards building capacity and sharing best practice.
“In addition to information exchange, it is vital that law enforcement across the region develop the expertise to translate this into action in the field, making the planned joint training and capacity building activities an important part of the agreement,” said Lt Col Alkhyeli.
“Exchanging best practices and developing stronger networks across the region and beyond are important elements to our future successful cooperation for the benefit of all countries,” he added.
GCCPOL serves as a law enforcement hub for the six countries of the GCC, offering crime and security analysis, criminal databases, a police communications centre and operational coordination.
Based on its three global programmes on terrorism, organised and emerging crime, and cybercrime, Interpol provides a unique global platform — whether in sharing and accessing vital information in its databases, meeting the training and operational needs of frontline officers, or by deploying specialised teams to assist national police.
