The EU funded and UNDP implemented “Supporting Integrated Border Management Systems in the South Caucasus” two-day workshop on border security of the Republic of Armenia kicked off in Yerevan on December 8 under the overall coordination of the Armenian National Security Council.

Armenia’s commitment to the EU standards and best practices implies establishment of a modern border security system that would be based on the Integrated Border Management (IBM) approach.

“Armenia and European Union are preparing for conclusion of the Association Agreement as well as the visa facilitation that the EU intends to grant to Armenia as soon as conditions allow,” said Ambassador Raul de Luzenberger, the Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia.

As he noted, the IMB will help Armenia comply with the EU standards and tackle a wide range of issues, including organized crime and trafficking.

“This will also give Armenia a possibility to improve the quality of the services at the borders with neighboring countries and deepen integration with the EU,” Amb. de Luzenberger said.

According to UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia Dafina Gercheva, the IMB has two objectives, these being to ensure free movement of cargo through borders and to combat illegal transportation of goods.

The government of Armenia has demonstrated its firm commitment to advance the IMB system in the country.