advertentieToday marks an important moment in our work on protecting the gateways into the EU internal market: ports.
A recent report by the European Union Drugs Agency has shown that over 1,800 tons of drugs were seized at EU seaports between 2019 and mid-2024, which shows the scale of maritime trafficking.
This is also true here in Denmark, were just a few weeks ago the biggest bust (700 kg) of ketamine was made.
It is the most frequently used path for drugs trafficking, as almost 70% of the drug seizures by customs authorities happen in the EUs ports, with large-volume seizures of drugs detected in intermodal shipping containers.
This is exactly why we need the EU Ports Alliance, which has enabled us to:
- Create a network to bring together all relevant partners
- Improve our ability to detect illegal drugs
- Share vital information across Europes ports
Our work is far from complete. The latest reports show that criminal gangs are adapting.
We need to build on what we have achieved
- by further expanding the Ports Alliance to cover more ports
- and by stepping up investment to improve detection
We also need to expand our focus beyond fighting drug trafficking,
- to look at all security threats to maritime infrastructure, including hybrid and cyber attacks
- put the security of the ports and maritime infrastructure at the centre of our security and preparedness efforts
All of these things will be covered under the new EU Ports Strategy, which we will be coming forward with soon.
Just as important is making sure we have the resources to deliver this. Our proposal for a new Multiannual budget does exactly that – with 6.8 billion euros foreseen for internal security alone.
Whether it is for Internal Security, Preparedness or Defence, the message is the same: We are committed to securing our ports, safeguarding our citizens, and protecting the EU.
This is not only to safeguard our internal market from illicit products, but also to protect the health and safety of our citizens.
Thank you. I am happy to take questions.