 June 26, 2005
In a June 24 press release, the U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said Commissioner Robert Bonner submitted the document affirming U.S. commitment to implement the WCO standards framework - just one day after its adoption by the WCO Council meeting in Brussels, Belgium. Bonner also reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to cooperate with other developed countries to provide technical assistance to developing countries for adopting the standards framework. In December 2004, the WCO endorsed the draft framework based on four principles: harmonized advance electronic manifest information on cross-border shipments, a risk-management approach to inspections, application of modern technology, and customs privileges for businesses that meet minimal supply-chain security standards. "The adoption by the WCO of the Framework of Standards represents a global response to the threat of terrorism. The Framework makes safer, worldwide trade a reality," Bonner said. "Its implementation by customs authorities around the world will revolutionize the security of trade, dealing a blow to international terrorists." The WCO Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade draws on the experience of existing national or regional initiatives such as the U.S. Container Security Initiative and the U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism.
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