INTERPOL to establish office in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, January 26, 2016 (FBC) – Ethiopia and the International Criminal Police organization-INTERPOL signed an agreement towards establishing a Special Representative Office in Addis Ababa, today (January 26, 2015).

State Minister of Foreign affairs, Ambassador Taye Atske-selassie, who received Mr. Jurgen Stock, Secretary General of INTERPOL at his offices described the signing of the agreement as a “special moment” given the multitudes of challenges across the world, particularly in the face of cross-border illicit trade and organized crime, and the critical need to strengthen the global partnership in such score.

The signing of the agreement on establishing INTERPOL’s Special Representative Office in Addis Ababa, the State Minister said would set the foundation for further cooperation and strengthened relationship between the two sides.

“By offering these good offices,” the State Minister added, “Ethiopia remains committed to support your organization so that you would be able to execute your duties in a smooth and efficient manner.”

Taking note of the fact that the signing of the agreement was a “historic episode,” the Secretary General of INTERPOL Mr. Jurgen Stock, noted that the event marked the start of a very significant step towards a strengthened cooperation and enhanced partnership between Ethiopia and INTERPOL which will definitely help the organization in the prospect of maximizing efficient police services across the African continent.

Noting that a strong alliance was required in the fight against challenges such as organized crime, Mr. Stock said, “the signing of the agreement offered tremendous opportunity in fulfilling our mission.”

“On behalf of the 190 member states, I thank the Ethiopian government for such a demonstrated commitment and outstanding support,” he added.

It was leant that the signing of the agreement came following INTERPOL’s desire to establish an office of representation to the African Union with a view to enhance INTERPOL’s co-operation with the African

Union in law enforcement matters and provide direct benefit to African INTERPOL member countries. Also in attendance was Commissioner General Assefa Biyou of the Ethiopian Federal Police Commission.