Beirut, Aug.13 (SANA)Syrian andLebanese delegationsheld two-day talks in Beirut on means of enhancing cooperation and coordination in border management. The meetings were facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), supported by the European Union, and attended by representatives of the relevant institutions in both countries.

TheGeneral Authority of Borders and Customsstated that the Syrian delegation comprised representatives from the Ministry of Defense – Border Guard, the Ministry of Interior – Airports andBorder CrossingsAdministration, and the General Authority of Borders and Customs. The Lebanese side was represented by officials from General Security, the Army, Customs, and several ministries and specialized agencies.

The talks addressed mechanisms to enhance coordination and information exchange, facilitate the movement of travelers and goods through official border points, and resolve shared operational challenges in border management.

The discussions also covered strengthening liaison offices and direct communication channels, easing trade flows, and advancing electronic connectivity between customs authorities in both countries.

The consultations further reviewed border control procedures, operations at crossing points, smuggling routes and counter smuggling measures, document verification mechanisms, and ways to improve communication between specialized agencies, in addition to enhancing coordination between corresponding border posts.

The meetings concluded with several recommendations focused on strengthening institutional coordination, improving information exchange, simplifying crossing procedures, and identifying priorities for technical cooperation in the coming period.

Syria and Lebanon in July signed an agreement establishing the Syrian-Lebanese Joint Higher Committee to enhance coordination among relevant ministries, develop economic, investment, and trade partnerships, and address issues related to electricity interconnection, cargo transport, and facilitating the movement of citizens within an institutional framework that serves mutual interests.