WCO and Basel Convention secretariat cooperate to manage illicit trade in wastes and environmentally-sensitive commodities
On 24 February 2020, the Enforcement Committee of the World Customs Organization (WCO) convened its 40th meeting. The main purpose of the Enforcement Committee is to contribue to the strategic work of the organization in relation to compliance, control and intelligence, as well as promoting the exchange of views and cooperation between stakeholders. WCO Secretary General, Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, and Executive Secretary of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS), Dr. Rolph Payet, were in attendance.
The theme, "Customs Enforcement fostering Sustainability for People, Prosperity and the Planet", led to insightful discussions on the importance of Customs in combating environmental crime and illegal trade which, by generating illegal profits, hamper sustainable development. Customs activities can however contribue to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including through building safe and secure societies, improving the business climate and protecting the planet for future generations.
Dr. Mikuriya and Dr. Payet further explored possibilities for future cooperation between WCO and the BRS secretariat, such as developing training material for Customs, including online, and strengthening networks between Customs and experts in areas like wastes, hazardous chemicals and persistent organic pollutants.
Please visit the website of the World Customs Organization for more information on this topic.
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