The European Police College (CEPOL) is the first EU institution to have its headquarters in Budapest, Minister of Interior Sándor Pintér said at the inauguration ceremony.
In his address, Minister Pintér emphasized that the premises in the heart of Budapest will be available to CEPOL over the next ten years, as well as relevant funding for the headquarters that offers appropriate working conditions.
Minister Pintér symbolically handed over the keys to CEPOL's director, Ferenc Bánfi.
In his speech Minister Pintér said that when in 2012, the United Kingdom stated that they were no longer able to host CEPOL, the Hungarian government decided to run for the position and following a lengthy consultation and application process, Budapest was selected.
Director of CEPOL Ferenc Bánfi emphasized that crime in the 21st century can only be battled as part of a cross-border operation and law enforcement officers have to be well-prepared for that, adding that he regards the institution as the alma mater of the European law enforcement community and that the inauguration ceremony has a symbolic value, too. It symbolizes the need for an autonomous European law enforcement academy.
The director thanked the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for supporting the move to Hungary. He also thanked the Hungarian Government for providing high standard headquarters that complies with all EU regulations, the European Council for their help in the move and the United Kingdom for hosting the academy for years.
Director Bánfi added that CEPOL is facing further challenges and new possibilities in developing and supporting the training of law enforcement officers.
(MTI, Ministry of Interior)
