ROCB Europe Hosts WCO Europe Region Vice-Chair Øystein Børmer for Strategic Discussions in Baku

On June 22, 2024, ROCB Europe hosted Mr. Øystein Børmer, the Vice-Chair of the WCO Europe Region, at its headquarters in Baku, Azerbaijan for a high-level strategic meeting focused on customs capacity building, regional cooperation, and the modernization of customs administrations. The meeting provided an opportunity for ROCB Europe Director Antonio Lo Parco and Mr. Børmer to engage in in-depth discussions on the current priorities and future directions of ROCB Europe. Topics included enhancing regional training programs, improving financial sustainability, and strengthening ROCB Europe’s role in implementing WCO capacity-building initiatives. A key focus was the alignment of ROCB Europe’s strategic plan with the WCO’s global modernization efforts, ensuring that the regional office continues to serve as a leading platform for customs cooperation and knowledge exchange. Discussions also covered ongoing capacity-building projects, digital transformation in customs, and fostering stronger partnerships with customs administrations across the region. Mr. Børmer expressed his appreciation for the active role of ROCB Europe in supporting customs administrations and emphasized the importance of closer collaboration between WCO leadership and regional structures. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing customs efficiency, trade facilitation, and the adoption of innovative technologies in customs operations. This meeting marked an important step in reinforcing ROCB Europe’s position as a central hub for customs development and cooperation within the WCO Europe Region.