Customs’ electronic link between Qatar, Saudi Arabia opens phase 1

The third meeting between Qatari and Saudi customs departments has launched the first phase of electronic link between the customs ports of Abu Samra and Salwa, a system that allows the exchange of data on the movement of vehicles and facilitates the process of registering cars moving between the two countries. The meeting comes within the framework of bilateral meetings between the two countries, in order to enhance aspects of joint cooperation in customs, a statement by Qatar Customs Department said Tuesday. The Qatari side was headed by Ahmed bin Ali Al Mohannadi, Director General of the Qatari Customs Department, while Saleh bin Manie Al-Khleewi, Director General of Saudi Customs, chaired the Saudi side. Al Mohannadi said that on top of the meeting’s agenda was the inauguration of the first phase of the electronic link between the two ports, noting that the rest of the phases will be launched as soon as possible, which will allow informational exchange for all measures and actions between the Abu Samra and Salwa ports. Al Mohannadi pointed out that the meeting decided to hold regular meetings for the managers of Abu Samra and Salwa ports on a monthly basis, so as to discuss observations that arise and find appropriate solutions swiftly. He added that the meeting also discussed the activation of joint working groups to determine the completion of requirements of customs unification in the major ports of the two countries, in line with what has been agreed at the second meeting of customs’ general managers. Al Mohannadi reiterated the customs department’s keenness on exchanging expertise with the Saudi customs, which has extensive experience in the field of customs administration, thanks to the strong historical ties between the two countries.