**NICOSIA, NORTHERN CYPRUS** – A significant enhancement to trade security and anti-smuggling efforts has been realized with the official handover of a state-of-the-art Mobile X-Ray Scanning System at the Kyrenia Tourism Port. The donation, a testament to the robust cooperation between the Turkish Ministries of Trade and Finance, aims to bolster the operational capabilities of the Kyrenia Customs Branch Directorate and elevate national security protocols through technological advancement.
The delivery ceremony, attended by a distinguished assembly of officials from both the Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), underscored the strategic importance of this initiative. Among the dignitaries present were the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Nicosia, Ali Murat Başçeri; the TRNC Minister of Finance, Özdemir Berova; the TRNC Minister of Interior, Dursun Oğuz; the TRNC Minister of Economy and Energy, Olgun Amcaoğlu; and the Minister of Trade of the Republic of Turkey, Ömer Bolat. Bureaucrats from both ministries were also in attendance, signifying the collaborative nature of this project.
This advanced scanning system, the result of nearly three years of ongoing collaboration between the respective ministries, is poised to revolutionise customs operations. The primary objective behind this generous provision is to fortify trade security and to more effectively combat illicit activities, including smuggling. By equipping the Customs and Revenue Department with cutting-edge technology, the aim is to significantly improve their efficiency and to ensure that legal trade flows unimpeded while illicit goods are swiftly identified.
Speaking at the event, TRNC Minister of Finance Özdemir Berova articulated the broader vision underpinning this acquisition. He stated, "When we look at it from this perspective, it is not just the purchase of a machine, but also a part of our vision to adapt to the digitalizing world and to fortify our national security with technology." Minister Berova further elaborated on the system's capabilities, emphasizing that "thanks to advanced imaging technology, it can detect all kinds of illegal materials and smuggling attempts that the human eye might miss with the highest sensitivity." This highlights the system's capacity to identify contraband and undeclared items with unparalleled precision, thereby mitigating risks that could compromise national security and economic integrity.
The introduction of the Mobile X-Ray Scanning System is anticipated to have a profound impact on the efficiency of inspections. Currently, detailed physical searches can consume considerable time, often spanning several hours. However, with the deployment of this new technology, these lengthy processes are expected to be reduced to mere minutes. This streamlining of inspection procedures will not only accelerate the pace of legitimate commerce but will also contribute directly to the country's trade capacity by minimising delays and reducing associated logistics costs.
This technological infusion represents a crucial step towards embracing a digitalised global landscape. By enhancing the capabilities of border control and customs authorities, the system promises to elevate the nation's security framework and the operational effectiveness of the Customs and Revenue Department to an unprecedented level. Ultimately, the integration of this advanced scanning technology is a strategic investment in safeguarding national interests, fostering economic growth, and adapting to the evolving demands of international trade in the 21st century.