US, INTERPOL discuss global security initiatives

A range of global security issues, including terrorism, were discussed during a recent meeting between U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock.

Sessions and Stock touched on several joint initiatives, including a project to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement and border security agencies in Africa.

Stock said Session’s visit provided a significant opportunity to review pressing security issues and the added value of international law enforcement cooperation.

“It is only through support such as that provided by the US that we can build a strong global security architecture which helps all countries protect their citizens and visitors,” Stock said. “Making sure that the right officer has the right information at the right time is a key part of this.”

Both Sessions and Stock recognized the need for rank and file officers to be able to access INTERPOL’s network, no matter the location of their duty station. Cybercrime was also a key topic for discussion, particularly challenges facing law enforcement in dealing with encrypted devices and investigations on the Darknet.

As the most frequent user of INTERPOL’s global capabilities, Stock said the United States remains a model in integrating INTERPOL into frontline policing as part of its crime-fighting activities.