On October 26, Serhiy Deineko and Tomash Praga discussed the situation in the common sector of the border and the condition of cooperation between the border guard agencies.

The meeting of the chief Border Commissioners of Ukraine and Poland took place at Krakivets BCP.

The heads of the departments noted that cross-border cooperation between the two countries has been developing successfully and strengthening not only on the basis of international agreements, but also in the spirit of mutual trust and respect.

“We are grateful to the border guard of the Republic of Poland for remaining our reliable partner. I am sure that we will continue to develop friendly relations between the border guards of Ukraine and the Republic of Poland for the benefit of our peoples,” Serhiy Deineko said.

He added that the strategic course towards European integration of Ukraine remains unchanged, and one of the priority aspects of implementing the state policy in the field of State Border Protection is the introduction of Integrated Border Management.

Chief Commandant of the Border Guard of the Republic of Poland Tomash Praga also stressed the high level of cooperation between the border guards of Ukraine and Poland. He expressed his confidence that this cooperation will continue to be a reliable shield in countering illegal activities in the common sector of the border.

The parties stated that the situation on the common state border is dynamic, but controlled. Illegal migration and smuggling activities remain the main threats, especially those related to the movement of tobacco products both through and beyond BCPs. Using small aircraft by illegal subjects for the purpose of illegal movement of cigarettes remains a hot-button problem.

In addition, the situation is significantly affected by the epidemiological situation associated with the spread of a particularly dangerous infectious disease COVID-19. At the same time, the parties positively assessed cooperation in the BCP functioning in the pandemic conditions. It was noted that traffic across the border was adapted to the development of the epidemiological situation, and after the reduction of quarantine restrictions, it remains regular and is carried out rhythmically.

It was also mentioned that after the completion of quarantine measures, the resumption of service by joint patrols is necessary.

The parties discussed issues of further cooperation and the need to improve all existing forms of cooperation. As a result of the meeting, the parties signed protocols and a plan for the development of cooperation between the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine and the Border Guard of the Republic of Poland over the period of 2022-2023.