THE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) yesterday announced that the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates have signed an agreement against transnational crimes.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and his Emirates counterpart, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, signed the agreement last week in Abu Dhabi.
“The agreement cements the two countries’ resolve to intensify cooperation against transnational crimes and institutionalize the exchange of best practices and expertise in law enforcement and public safety operations,” the DILG said in a statement.
The department did not provide specific details of the agreement, which it calls a “landmark bilateral agreement” and “the first of its kind between the two nations.”
“It also reflects a broader commitment to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development, anchored on the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and equality among states under international law,” the DILG also said.
The DILG said Remulla and Al-Nahyan, during their meeting, discussed opportunities for collaboration such as digital technologies, and urban governance, and other “sectors of mutual interest.”
The DILG said Remulla conveyed the government’s “deep appreciation” to the UAE for its granting of pardon to 115 Filipinos during Ramadan. It said the UAE’s gesture underscores the “enduring friendship” of the two sides.
In a statement on April 21, the UAE interior ministry said the agreement that was signed was “aimed at bolstering joint efforts in combating crime, and promoting the exchange of best practices and expertise between the two nations.”
It said the interior chiefs, during their meeting, “discussed ways to step up cooperation and strengthen existing partnerships between the UAE and the Philippines, particularly in the fields of policing and security.”
Remulla’s delegation included DILG Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Lilian de Leon, and DILG executive assistant Haydee Sy.
The Al-Nahyan party included Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili, undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior; Major General Sheikh Mohammed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, director-general of the Abu Dhabi police; and Brigadier Saeed Abdullah Al Suwaidi, director-general of the Federal Anti-Narcotics Department.
