UAE Interior Ministry urges stronger partnerships to protect maritime supply chains

The UAE Ministry of Interior has called for stronger international partnerships to protect maritime supply chains from criminal exploitation, WAM reported. The call came at a meeting during the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi.

How can international partnerships protect maritime supply chains?

The ministry says partnerships let countries share expertise and knowledge. Law enforcement, ports and shipping companies can then act together. The aim is to dismantle criminal networks at their source, which can limit their activities and stop illicit shipments from reaching their destinations.

Why is the shipping sector essential to stopping illicit shipments?

The ministry described the shipping sector as an essential partner. Its position across supply chains allows it to spot suspicious activity early.

It also stressed the need to share information and report concerns quickly, before vessels set sail. This helps reduce risks and protect communities.

Technological tools can also help trace illicit routes, the ministry said. They can support vessels that operate legally.

What was discussed at the maritime supply chains meeting?

The remarks came at a meeting on strengthening the integrity of maritime supply chains. It was held on the sidelines of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi.

Colonel Dana Humaid Al Marzouqi, Director General of International Affairs at the ministry, said the UAE has built its approach on trust and partnership since its founding. She said this draws on the principles of cooperation set by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father.

Al Marzouqi said tackling maritime supply chain crimes requires effective cooperation. She said this must involve law enforcement, the shipping and port industries, and other relevant parties.

How do criminal groups exploit maritime supply chains?

Al Marzouqi said criminal groups exploit legitimate trade channels. They hide stolen timber, illegally trafficked wildlife and hazardous waste, she said.

Their methods include forged documents and tampered shipment seals. They also move consignments through multiple ports to obscure where the goods came from, she added.

What is the UAE doing with UNODC on illicit trafficking?

Al Marzouqi pointed to the UAE's work with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) through the I2LEC initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing to fight illicit trafficking and environmental crimes.