WCO Secretary General visits Andorra and promotes strengthened cooperation

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, visited Andorra on 4^th August 4 2023, following an invitation from the Government of Andorra. The purpose of the visit was to explore opportunities for enhancing cooperation between Andorra and the WCO.

Upon arrival in Andorra la Vella, the capital of the Principality of Andorra, Dr. Mikuriya was warmly welcomed by the Prime Minister, H.E. Xavier Espot Zamora. The landlocked country's geographical location in the Pyrenees makes connectivity at land borders crucial, particularly as it lacks its own airport. Prime Minister Espot reassured the Secretary General of Andorra's commitment to adhering to and implementing international standards, including the Revised Kyoto Convention, and expressed a strong desire to continue the excellent cooperation with the WCO.

During a productive working session, Dr. Mikuriya met with Minister of Finance H.E. Ramon LLadós and the Customs team, led by Director Mr. Carles Ferreira. The meeting delved into the current situation of Andorra Customs, given its unique position between France and Spain. Maintaining strong relationships with these bordering countries, as well as fostering ties with a wider range of nations, is crucial to attract visitors and investment. The participants discussed common Customs challenges, including strategic communication to raise Customs' visibility and the need to enhance training for the next generation of Customs officers.

Dr. Mikuriya also had the opportunity to meet with the President of the Parliament, H.E. Carles Enseyat, who shared his vision for Andorra's prosperity and the role of Customs in achieving it. Key topics included addressing the impact of e-commerce in surrounding countries and the importance of efficient border crossings to facilitate the movement of goods and passengers, thereby promoting tourism and winter sports, which are vital industries for Andorra.

To gain a deeper understanding of the Customs operations, Dr. Mikuriya visited the juxtaposed offices at the Andorra-French borders, accompanied by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Andorra, H.E. Imma Tor. Minister Tor highlighted that Andorra relies on the airports in Barcelona, Spain, and Toulouse, France, making efficient border crossings imperative as it takes around three hours to drive to Andorra from both airports. At an altitude of 2000 meters, Andorra Customs has facilities in French territory, working closely with French Customs under the same roof. Dr. Mikuriya expressed his appreciation for this collaborative arrangement, which serves as an excellent example of cooperation between neighbouring Customs administrations. The visit concluded on a positive note, with the potential for strengthened ties and future collaboration between Andorra and the WCO.