Working Arrangement signed to establish cooperative relations between the law enforcement authorities of Singapore and Europol

The Working Arrangement provides a legal framework for the negotiation of related implementing agreements, such as the SIENA Memorandum of Understanding or the Liaison Agreement. If established, a SIENA connection would allow law enforcement authorities from Singapore to be connected with over 3 000 law enforcement agencies from over 70 countries, facilitating both bilateral communication with or without the involvement of Europol. A Liaison Agreement would allow the secondment of liaison officer(s) from Singapore to Europol’s headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands. Currently, Europol hosts a network of over 300 liaison officers from EU Member States, third countries and international organisations.Mr Ngiam Shih Chun, Deputy Secretary (Policy) of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore, said:The Working Arrangement signed today between Europol and the Ministry of Home Affairs demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening cooperation. Recognising that safeguarding the safety and security of our citizens requires a coordinated global approach, this Arrangement marks the first step in paving the way for regular and systematic collaboration between Europol and the law enforcement authorities in Singapore and cements our strategic partnership in confronting common security challenges.Ms Catherine De Bolle, Executive Director of Europol, said:In an increasingly globalised world, the security of the European Union begins beyond its borders. Security challenges have become more complex and multidimensional. Today, there is a strong link between events outside the EU and security within Europe. The Working Arrangement signed today between Singapore and Europol underscores the interconnected nature of modern security threats and highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing them effectively. By partnering with Singapore, Europol reinforces the European Union's commitment to proactive and comprehensive security measures.Europol’s mission is to support EU Member States in preventing and combating all forms of serious international and organised crime, cybercrime and terrorism. It serves as the centre for law enforcement cooperation, analytical expertise and criminal intelligence in Europe.Image courtesy of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore.