On 1 March 2019, the European Union Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) together with the law enforcement agencies from Odesa region launched a joint initiative for counteracting cross-border crime, by signing a Protocol on ‘Inter-agency Regional Analytical Group’. The event took place at EUBAM premises in Odesa, in the presence of the Head of EUBAM and the regional managers of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, Security Service of Ukraine, National Police of Ukraine and State Fiscal Service of Ukraine.

The initiative of launching the Interagency Regional Analytical Group is part of EUBAM and its Partner Services’ joint efforts to prevent and combat cross-border crime on the Moldova-Ukraine border and has been negociated and agreed upon during several consultative sessions. The regular assessment of risks and threats, reinforced cooperation and exchange of information among the law-enforcement agencies are expected to be the main achievements of the new initiative.

“Signing of this Protocol today is an important step forward towards, setting up a united front to tackle cross-border crime and bringing more security in Odesa region. One single agency cannot address these threats, that is why, pulling resources, sharing intelligence and coordinating our efforts via this newly established initiative will provide a quick and consolidated response to cross-border crime. Together we are stronger”, stated Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM Mission.