Portugal is the westernmost state of mainland Europe, being bordered to the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and to the north and east by Spain. Its territory also includes the Atlantic archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira. Portugal has a rich cultural heritage which is shared across the globe as a consequence of its colonial past.
Portugal has a highly developed economy and is a much-visited tourist destination. Portugal’s geographical position makes it the gateway to the Mediterranean and a stopover for many foreign airlines at several airports within the country.
Portugal is also part of the Schengen area and has been an early adopter of biometrics and eGate technology.
With their experience of being in the frontline of the smuggling of drugs and illicit goods from the Atlantic, THB and economic migration challenges from Africa, Portugal is the perfect place re-convene for the next meeting of the World Border Security Congress.