EU praises performance of EUPOL COPPS
Ramallah, March 18, 2014
The Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), Mr. Maciej Popowski , praised the performance of EUPOL COPPS and its Palestinian counterparts during his two-day trip to the region that was concluded on Tuesday.
During his visit, Mr. Popowski met EUPOL COPPS' Head of Mission, Kenneth Deane, national and International staff of the Mission as well as with EUBAM RAFAH's representatives. Acknowledging the achievements of the Mission in front of all Mission's staff, he said that EUPOL COPPS stands out in comparison to other Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Missions.
"What you have been doing here for quite some time is really very much appreciated back in Brussels. This is a mission that is visible. This is a mission that is being spoken of very highly. This is an effort that is going to continue because it is still badly needed," he told the audience.
Mr. Deane expressed his gratitude to his nearly 100 staff members, who lined up to receive a certificate of appreciation for the work they have been doing since the establishment of EUPOL COPPS Mission in 2006.
"This Mission has achieved much during the past years and will continue to achieve more. We want to make a difference," Mr. Deane said. "You deserve a land of peace. Working alongside you, this Mission will continue to have your aspirations become a reality to ensure that your institutions serve you well and give you justice that you can live with your families in a democratic land where your rights are respected," he added.
During the visit, Mr. Deane and members of the top management of EUPOL COPPS have accompanied Mr. Popowski in his meetings with Palestinian counterparts in criminal justice institutions and Palestinian Civil Police (PCP). Mr. Popowski expressed his appreciation to Palestinian efforts in building the institutions of the future state.
Speaking of a demonstration performed by members of PCP's Special Police Force in Ramallah, Mr. Popowski said: "I was very much impressed by the skills and the professionalism and I was very much impressed by the dedication of the police force.
During the demonstration, the police unit portrayed a plethora of drills which showed how the police can gradually use force to maintain law and order, without infringing on the rights of demonstrators and without resorting to violence, a technique acquired from EUPOL COPPS police advisers.
Document Sources: EUPOL COPPS, European Union (EU)
Subject: Assistance, Legal issues
Publication Date: 18/03/2014