Ukraine launches coordination center for integrated border management

MOSCOW. April 23 (Interfax) - A coordination center for integrated border management, tasked with monitoring and reporting on the situation at the border, has begun operating in Ukraine, Ukrainian media outlets said, citing the State Border Service's statement on social media.

"It was established on the premises of the Interior Ministry's Situation Center in accordance with the Ukrainian government's decree and in line with the requirements of the EU Regulation. The center's functioning is one the criteria for Ukraine's accession to the EU," the State Border Service said.

Officials from five agencies - the State Border Service, the State Customs Service, the National Police, the National Guard, and the State Migration Service - will work at the center.

"The center's operations will be aimed at facilitating coordination between integrated border management parties, data exchanges and research, formulation of joint conclusions and forecasts, and compiling reports on the situation at the border," Ukrainian State Border Service first deputy chief Vladimir Nikiforenko said.