Canadian Ambassador William Crosbie at the opening of the Afghan National Customs Academy (ANCA). (Photo courtesy U.S. Embassy Kabul)
Posted on 01/20/2010 3:58:40 PM PST by SandRat
Courtesy Canadian Forces
KABUL, January 19, 2010 — Canadian Ambassador William Crosbie and United States Ambassador for Economic and Development Affairs Anthony Wayne joined Minister of Finance H.E. Dr. Omar Zakhilwal for the opening of the Afghan National Customs Academy (ANCA).
Established with the support of a number of international donors, the ANCA will assist the Afghanistan Customs Department to develop into a modern customs service.
“The opening of this academy is of particular importance to Canada, as it furthers a key area of focus for our engagement in Afghanistan,” said Ambassador William Crosbie. “A more secure and better-managed border is essential for promoting much needed economic opportunities for Afghans.”
Through the ANCA, 150 to 200 recruits will be trained over the course of 12 months on customs practices. At the same time, four Afghan trainers will participate in a train-the-trainer program so that Afghans can train Afghans to ensure that the ANCA will remain operational and sustainable over the long term.
“A strong, professional, and nationally unified Customs Service allows commerce – the life blood of the economy – to flow. This will bring measurable economic benefits to legitimate traders and consumers,” said Ambassador Anthony Wayne.
The Canada Border Services Agency, which manages Canada’s air, land and sea border crossings, has developed tailored training materials that will be used in the Academy’s curriculum. The agency has also provided a deputy dean and a senior trainer who will work with recruits and officials. The US Border Management Task Force will provide funding for a contractor to operate the Academy, the dean of the Academy and five trainers.
Related Sites: Canada's Engagement in Afghanistan
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