(TAP) – Prime Minister Youssef Chahed presented on Thursday morning promotion stripes to a number of Customs officers at the Kram Exhibition Centre, on the occasion of the celebration of the 62nd anniversary of Tunisian Customs.

The ceremony was followed by a parade of foot troops and motorised troops belonging to the different units and brigades of the Customs Guard.

Chahed seized the opportunity to commend the efforts exerted by Customs officers and officials in discharging their duties, pointing out the achievements of this body in support of the national economy, which contributed to the establishment of a favourable investment climate and the protection of the Tunisian enterprise from the dangers of smuggling and parallel trade, thanks to co-ordination with the rest of the security and military corps.

In this regard, he said: "We are proud of the role played by the customs institution in protecting the homeland and its borders from smuggling and terrorism," adding that "the Tunisian Customs, which gave martyrs to the nation, are endeavouring to provide services up to the expectations of the Tunisian citizen”.

The Prime Minister also hailed efforts exerted to complete and succeed the customs reform, especially regarding its digitisation and development, in compliance with international standards.

The ceremony was attended by Finance Minister Ridha Chalghoum, Customs Director General Youssef Zouaghi, government members and senior officials from the various departments of the State and Customs