Building Bridges Across Borders: Odesa and Galati Customs Strengthen Ties

In a significant step towards enhancing international cooperation, the Acting Head of Odesa Customs, Yuriy Cherdyntsev, recently met with the Executive Director of the Galati Customs Regional Directorate, Petrike Munteanu. The bilateral coordination meeting, held in Odesa, was initiated by EUAM Ukraine, and aimed to deepen international cooperation, build trust, and ensure the security and openness of the border between Ukraine and Romania.

Among the key topics discussed were advancing the Common Transit System usage, the possibility of pre-clearance information exchange at the Orlivka-Isaccea border crossing point, leveraging joint efforts in counteracting cross-border customs offences and conducting common training activities.

The meeting highlighted the mutual commitment between Ukrainian and Romanian border customs to enhance cooperation. Participants expressed hope that such initiatives will benefit both countries by promoting cross-border collaboration and harmonizing customs procedures. As Ukraine progresses towards integration into the European Union customs system, EUAM Ukraine remains dedicated to supporting its Ukrainian partners.

Adrian COSTACHE , EUAM Ukraine Senior Advisor on Integrated Border Management, emphasised the importance of this cooperation: "Strengthening bilateral customs cooperation between Ukraine and Romania over the Danube, as one of the key Integrated Border Management pillars, aims at developing a safe and secure border between Ukraine and the European Union, while facilitating legitimate trade and travel".