Addis ababa: Ethiopia and INTERPOL have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in combating transnational crime and enhancing police capacity through collaboration. President Taye Atske Selassie and INTERPOL President Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi held discussions today.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael, who attended the meeting, reported that President Taye reaffirmed Ethiopia's strong dedication to global security. The Commissioner General emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts in addressing terrorism, cyber-crime, human trafficking, and cross-border criminal networks.
He also noted the significance of discussions with INTERPOL on how it can support Ethiopian and African police forces in capacity building, training, and the use of advanced technology. Ethiopia has been using technologies provided by INTERPOL, which will further strengthen this relationship through expanded capacity building and training, particularly in developing a professional police force equipped with modern technology.
Recalling Ethiopia's active engagement as an INTERPOL member, he stated that efforts will continue to deepen the country's participation in the organization. On his part, Major General Al-Raisi said he discussed INTERPOL's role in combating crime, particularly organized crime, with the President. He further highlighted Ethiopia's significant contributions under the leadership of its police in protecting communities.
The INTERPOL President also acknowledged Ethiopia's longstanding involvement in the organization, noting that the country has been an active member for more than seven decades. It has played a vital role in the fight against organized crime, cyber-crime, and human trafficking. 'It has been playing very active roles; and we also coordinated a lot of issues regarding the Interpol support within this region where we've been very active to protect and to also connect all the countries to the databases of the organization.'