Visit of CSC WB experts in Kosovo* aiming at improving interoperability and SPOC enhancement
On 15 June 2021 a delegation of experts from the project Countering Serious Crime in the Western Balkans – IPA 2019 (CSC WB) has begun the second round of visits aimed at improving the beneficiaries’ abilities in the field of interoperability and SPOC (Single Point(s) of Contact) enhancement – by visiting Kosovo*. The delegation is meeting the representatives of the International Legal Cooperation Unit and of the IT sector who are responsible for the implementation of the database and system interoperability at an international level.
The importance of the interoperability in the field of fighting organized crime was stressed by the Deputy Minister of Interior Affairs Mr. Blerim Gashani: “The interoperability is important for Kosovo`s* law enforcement agencies as the increased flow of information sharing directly leads to the overall security increase”.
The in-depth analysis which will last from 15th to 18th June 2021 will provide an detailed outlook for the way forward, as stressed by Mr. Antonio Montanaro, deputy Project Leader of the CSC WB on behalf of the Italian Ministry of Internal Affairs: “ By working hand-in-hand with our project partners we expect to acquaint Kosovo`s* police databases with its systems state of art and compatibility, define the gaps for an efficient connection with the international databases and systems, assess the implementation costs and draw a timeline for concrete procurements.”
Despite the shortcomings related to the COVID 19 pandemic, it has been possible to realize the meetings in Kosovo*, especially due to the determination of the local authorities to introduce the delegation to all the interested parties as well as the stakeholders, which is highly appreciated.
In this regard, Kosovo* is the second beneficiary country to be visited. We have reported about our first visit to Albania here.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
Photo Source: Italian Ministry of Internal Affairs (IMoI)
