UAE Joins INTERPOL’s Global Congress On Chemical Security Steering Committee To Enhance International Cooperation

The UAE, through its Ministry of Interior, has joined the INTERPOL’s Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats Steering Committee. This marks the UAE as the first GCC nation to be part of this committee. The membership highlights the UAE's significant role in global safety efforts. The Steering Committee meeting took place in Abu Dhabi, hosted by the UAE Ministry of Interior.

The Steering Committee was formed in 2022 as a multinational advisory body. It aims to set priorities for the Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats. The committee works with INTERPOL and over 2,000 global experts to enhance capabilities against chemical terrorism through knowledge sharing and best practices.

Brigadier Saeed Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Assistant Undersecretary for Security Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, welcomed international delegations at the event. He stressed that hosting this global event shows the UAE’s dedication to international cooperation and initiatives for chemical security. Brigadier Abdulrahman Al Mansoori, representing the UAE and GCC on the advisory body, stated that this membership extends the UAE's commitment to global security collaboration.

The Global Congress on Chemical Security focuses on challenges related to chemical weapons and explosives. It serves as a platform for sharing information on emerging threats. This enables countries to improve their prevention, monitoring, and investigation capabilities while promoting collective action for global chemical security.

The Steering Committee comprises 19 INTERPOL member countries, four international organizations, and other key entities. It provides strategic guidance and facilitates cross-sectoral collaboration among experts. These efforts aim to prevent chemicals from being acquired or misused for illegal purposes.

Representatives from international organizations attending the meeting praised the UAE for hosting this significant gathering. They acknowledged its ongoing efforts in supporting international cooperation to confront chemical threats. The meeting is seen as a platform for exchanging expertise and developing joint response mechanisms for a safer world.

Focus on Advanced Technologies

The meeting began with discussions on enhancing international cooperation against chemical threats. Participants reviewed recommendations from the 2025 Global Congress Plenary Meeting and prepared for an exercise in Brazil aimed at improving readiness for chemical emergencies. Discussions also included how industrial and academic sectors can support chemical security.

On the second day, representatives from various sectors will discuss preparations for the 2026 Global Congress Plenary Meeting. Sessions will explore advanced technologies' role in supporting chemical security and integrating AI into preventive measures. Strategies will be discussed to prevent cyberattacks on chemical security systems.

This international network has been operational since 2018, co-led by INTERPOL, Global Affairs Canada, and the U.S. DoD's Defense Threat Reduction Agency. It partners with the G7 Global Partnership Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Spread.

The goal is to maximize coordinated action benefits using emerging technologies in advancing global chemical security. Discussions will consider how countries with limited resources can prevent malicious actors from exploiting these tools while strengthening cooperation between industries, governments, and law enforcement agencies.

With inputs from WAM