"Transnational criminal networks can be effectively combatted through strategic cooperation at international level. The European Union cannot even imagine tackling terrorist threats without cooperating with international partners", said Alessandra Mussolini MEP, European Parliament Rapporteur on the Council implementing decision approving the conclusion of the Agreement on Strategic Cooperation in the fight against serious crime and terrorism between the United Arab Emirates and Europol, after today's vote in plenary.

According to the Agreement, the cooperation will include exchange of information on results of strategic analyses, criminal investigation procedures, specialist knowledge, general situation reports, training activities, information on crime prevention methods and the provision of advice and support in individual criminal investigations.

The Rapporteur continued: "This Agreement is more necessary than ever today due to the fact that the United Arab Emirates is becoming a growing hub for economic and financial crime. Structured cooperation with this country will benefit the safety of European citizens who deserve our absolute support at this really critical time."

"After the tragic events in Paris, the political Groups which were initially against this Agreement have understood that ideological prerequisites and matters of principle cannot compromise the European responsibility to guarantee the highest standards of security for our citizens. The European Parliament has not missed this chance to support an Agreement whose implementation will improve the safety of our citizens", she concluded.