By By Julia Rota
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to solidify its position as a global leader in international cooperation and security, achieving a significant milestone by securing the chairmanship of the Permanent Governance Committee of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). This landmark victory, announced on April 11, 2025, underscores the UAE’s growing influence in fostering global security and governance.
Lieutenant Colonel Dana Hamid Al Marzouqi, Director General of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Ministry of Interior, was elected to lead the committee, garnering an impressive 67% of the votes from member states during the proceedings held at INTERPOL’s headquarters in Lyon, France. This achievement highlights the UAE’s reputation for credibility and its commitment to building robust international partnerships.
The Governance Committee, a cornerstone of INTERPOL’s structure, plays a critical role in shaping the organization’s legal and constitutional frameworks. It advises on amendments to INTERPOL’s statutes, ensures sound governance, and supports the organization’s strategic objectives. As the first country to chair this newly established standing committee—elevated from a technical team during the 92nd INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow in 2024—the UAE is poised to lead discussions and drive decision-making for the next two years. The committee’s mandate includes reviewing INTERPOL’s regulations, facilitating inclusive participation, and representing member states in global security efforts.
This triumph adds to the UAE’s growing list of international accolades. Just days earlier, on April 5, 2025, the UAE secured a seat on the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) for the 2026-2029 term, representing the Asia-Pacific group. These achievements reflect the UAE’s dedication to combating global challenges, from organized crime to narcotics trafficking, through collaborative and principled leadership.
In parallel, the UAE is actively engaging in high-level diplomacy to address pressing regional developments. On April 12, 2025, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a phone call with Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, to discuss the ongoing talks between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, hosted by the Sultanate of Oman. The conversation focused on the latest developments in these negotiations, which aim to address Iran’s nuclear program amid heightened regional tensions. The UAE’s involvement in such discussions underscores its role as a key player in promoting stability and dialogue in the Middle East.
The UAE’s commitment to global cooperation extends beyond security and diplomacy. The World Government Summit, an annual event hosted in Dubai, continues to serve as a platform for fostering tolerance, innovation, and collaboration among world leaders. The summit aligns with the UAE’s vision of promoting inclusive governance and sustainable development, themes that resonate with its recent INTERPOL success and diplomatic efforts.
As the UAE takes on these prominent roles, it reaffirms its dedication to advancing international security, governance, and peace. From chairing INTERPOL’s Governance Committee to facilitating critical regional dialogues, the UAE is shaping a future built on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect.
