Press release

BISHKEK, 1 December 2008 - An OSCE-sponsored training course on strengthening travel document security started in Bishkek today.

Officials involved in Kyrgyzstan's border control will learn how to detect forged documents, improve analytical capabilities and update knowledge regarding worldwide travel documentation. The course includes a module on the use of Interpol databases.

"Knowledge about forged documents is absolutely essential to fight security threats, such as terrorism, organized crime and trafficking in human beings," said Juergen Duftschmied, one of the three international experts teaching the course.

The 10-day training course mixes theory with practical exercises and discussions. The 20 participants represent the State Border Service, the Interior Ministry, the State Customs Service and the State Agency of Information resources and Technologies of Kyrgyzstan.

The course was developed by the OSCE Secretariat's Action against Terrorism Unit and the OSCE Borders Team for border control officials in OSCE participating States.
The Bishkek course is organized by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek as part of its antiterrorism programme in Kyrgyzstan.