click for hi-res CBP Deputy Commissioner David V. Aguilar joined Israeli Customs Director General/ Acting Director Israeli Tax Authority Doron Arbely at CBP headquarters in Washington, D.C., to sign a joint work plan. Photo Credit: James Tourtellotte

C-TPAT is CBP’s voluntary supply-chain security program for importers, brokers, carriers and other eligible entities. C-TPAT builds upon relationships with all segments of the supply chain, both foreign and domestic, to secure the entire supply chain of goods entering the U.S.

Prior to meeting Aguilar and signing the work plan, Arbely and the Israeli delegation received an aerial tour from CBP’s San Diego Air and Marine Unit, in addition to an extensive tour of CBP operations in San Diego, Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif. During their tour, they were briefed on port operations, cargo processing, C-TPAT, radiation portal monitoring systems, Merchandise Enforcement Team warehouse inspections and the latest technology in use by CBP field personnel. They were also briefed on anti-tunneling operations at Galvez Tunnel in Otay Mesa, Calif., and were briefed on CBP’s border tunnel activity system.

Aguilar said he appreciates the mutual cooperation with his Israeli counterparts. He said it was another example of the enduring friendship and vital partnership between the two countries as they address the challenges of securing their borders and facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

“The signing of this joint work plan further solidifies the United States’ strong and enduring partnership with Israel, and our mutual dedication to ensure the safety and security of both our countries,” said Aguilar.

The Israeli delegation will visit the Port of Buffalo on Monday, where they will be briefed on the infrastructure and operations of the port with an emphasis in the challenges and successes at the Northern border. The Israeli delegation will also be briefed on the communication and coordination with Canada Customs and collaborations with other government agencies.

This will complete the Israeli Delegation's visit to the United States and will depart having a better understanding on how CBP manages its ports from the Northern and Southern Borders and the steps in achieving a Mutual Recognition Arrangement.