Shipping Arabia, September 27, 2026 – A delegation from Syria’s General Authority for Borders and Customs participated in an international maritime seminar held in Cairo and Alexandria, Egypt, focused on strengthening efforts to combat illicit trafficking through maritime routes and drug smuggling across the Mediterranean.
The Syrian delegation included Naji Abdeen, Director General of the General Directorate of Ports, and Ahmed Al-Masri, Director of the Coast Guard Forces.
The seminar was organized by France’s Directorate General of Customs and Indirect Taxes and brought together experts and representatives from authorities responsible for combating smuggling across countries in the region. Representatives of shipping companies and port operators also took part, with discussions centered on cooperation and the exchange of expertise in addressing shared maritime security challenges.
Maritime intelligence and risk analysis
Sessions examined the maritime security situation in the Mediterranean and reviewed emerging routes and methods used by criminal groups for smuggling operations.
Participants also discussed the role of maritime intelligence and risk analysis in identifying illicit activities, alongside ways to strengthen international cooperation at both strategic and operational levels.
The discussions reflected the need for closer coordination between customs, coast guard, port and maritime stakeholders in dealing with criminal activity that moves through maritime transport channels.
Bilateral talks with Greece, Cyprus and France
On the sidelines of the seminar, the General Authority for Borders and Customs delegation held bilateral meetings with representatives from Greece, Cyprus and France.
The talks addressed opportunities for technical cooperation, as well as the exchange of information and operational expertise.
The delegation also discussed developing Syrian Coast Guard capabilities in several areas, including training and qualification, surveillance, maritime inspection, operations and maintenance.
These discussions formed part of efforts to strengthen operational capacity and deepen cooperation with regional and international partners involved in maritime security and anti-smuggling activities.
Joint maritime operations and inspection procedures
The Syrian delegation also participated in a workshop dedicated to joint maritime operations.
The workshop examined proposals for conducting field exercises and developing vessel and container inspection procedures. Participants also discussed improving coordination between specialized teams involved in maritime enforcement and security operations.
Another focus was the development of an operational communications network across the region. The objective is to move cooperation beyond the exchange of experience and toward practical coordination between the relevant administrations.
The General Authority for Borders and Customs said its participation forms part of efforts to strengthen regional and international partnerships, improve the capabilities of national personnel and further develop Syria’s port and coastal security system.
These efforts are aimed at supporting the fight against drug smuggling while protecting the legitimate movement of maritime trade.
Source: General Authority for Borders and Customs
