Fact-finding visit of Albanian State Police delegation at International Operations Room, Italy
The CSC WB project organised a four-day fact-finding visit from 15 – 18 June 2021 for the Albanian State Police delegation, visiting the Criminal Police Central Directorate and other relevant structures in Italy, in the framework of the project’s annual activity planning “Sharing of operational information and interoperability of systems and databases”. The Albanian beneficiary was represented by the Director of Information Technology Directorate, Director of Support Services Department, and the Head of the Support Services Sector.
During the fact-finding visit the participants had the opportunity to exchange and find new insights into the strategic approach to sharing of operational information and interoperability of systems and databases and gain practical knowledge through meetings that were held with the Italian counterparts related to the single point of contact (SPOC), interoperability of police databases, systems and methodologies applied in line with EU standards. One of CSC WB key objective is to facilitate partnerships amongst the Western Balkan countries and European countries and partner agencies This visit presented an excellent opportunity to expand networking between the Western Balkans and European partners and subsequently exchanging lessons learned.
Furthermore, through the on-site visits at various structures, such as the EUROPOL National Unit, Interpol Office, Data Processing Center, Cyber Security Operations Center, API/PNR Control Room, DNA division, Schengen Database, National Electronic Center, etc., it has been possible to closely observe the on-site and functioning of the afore-mentioned structures, organization, responsibilities and work procedures, hardware and software, cooperation and coordination mechanisms and instruments, etc.
On the other hand, the ASP representatives shared their experience, hindrances, and future expectations in this regard, which was also beneficial for the Italian counterparts.
Lastly, the Albanian delegation was received by the Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Italian Republic, HE Anila Bitri, who emphasized the crucial importance of strong bilateral cooperation and partnership between the two countries’ security authorities and, congratulated both parties, the Albanian representatives of the State Police and the CSC WB Project, for the fruitful work done in this respect, hitherto.
As stated by the Director of Support Services Department, Ms. Nevila Xoxa, this visit will foster the enhancement and highlight the importance for the Albanian SPOC and the related interoperability of systems and databases.
Photo Source: IMoI
