OSCE boosts travel document security in Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK, 19 December 2013 – A renovated training room, computer equipment and study materials to be used in delivering courses on identifying forged travel documents were presented by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek to the State Border Service of Kyrgyzstan today. The ceremony marked the completion of a capacity-building course on travel document security.

The project aimed at enhancing border security and improving management practices of Kyrgyzstan border agencies through helping State Border Service officers gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills in detecting counterfeit documents and using ID databases. Under the project, OSCE, in co-operation with the Operative Border Group of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, supported the development of the course curriculum and training materials.

The project also included exchanges between airport officials from the border services of Kyrgyzstan and Russia working in airports in Bishkek and Osh and Moscow.

“Illegal use of travel documents is usually linked to various types of transborder crimes, such as international criminal syndicates’ activities, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism,” Ambassador Sergey Kapinos, Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said. “Timely detection of forged IDs can help tackle these crimes and enhance the national security of Kyrgyzstan.” He added that the OSCE Centre in Bishkek would continue and broaden activities in this area in the future.

Deputy Head of the State Border Service of Kyrgyzstan Colonel Kalmurat Baitoloev, said:  “With the training and technical materials provided by the OSCE we will be able to more efficiently combat the illegal use of counterfeit documents. These new technologies will allow us not only to counter drug and human trafficking and curb the spread of religious extremism and international terrorism, but also to ensure simpler transit procedures for those who travel legally.”