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Commission Report (2002): Latvia
Implementation of the Schengen Action Plan has continued in line with the
requirements of the Action Plan. As regards the law enforcement bodies,
including the judiciary, legislation has progressed and further strengthening
as well as co-operation was achieved between the institutions responsible,
notably the police and the authorities responsible for combating money
laundering; progress was less marked on the judiciary and with respect to
effective results. Work on co-operation agreement with Europol is on track.
Implementation of the National Drug Strategy and preparation for
participation in EMCDDA (European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drugs
Addiction) are within schedule. Alignment to the acquis on visa and asylum
but not on migration has continued and the institutions have been further
strengthened as required by the Action Plan. Preparations with a view to
Latvia`s participation in the Schengen Information System have commenced
through the elaboration of a policy document and establishment of a SIRENE
Bureau as well as of the National Schengen Information System, as foreseen
under the Action Plan. Strengthening of the external borders controls, as
foreseen under the Action Plan, was addressed through continued
implementation of the policy document of the State Border Guard Development
(2001--2005), increased investments in order to develop the infrastructure at
the eastern border, including completion of further border posts,
installation of information systems (REIS, UVIS) as well as training; the
establishment of an integrated sea surveillance system has advanced through
the establishment and training of maritime units within the State Border
Guards. No important progress was made regarding judicial co-operation in
civil matters. No progress was reported regarding steps to align Latvia`s
legislation to the Convention on the Protection of the Communities'
Financial Interests. Overall, the Accession Partnership priorities in the
area of justice and home affairs have been partially met. Implementation of
the measures under the Action Plan is largely on track.
© European Commission
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