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Greece is one of the next European countries which will enter the list of Europol for the exchange of information in real time. This was announced by British Europol Director Rob Wainwright in an interview for Kathimerini newspaper. From January 1 of this year Europol proceeded with some institutional changes, which made their services fully autonomous and independent. 12 out of 27 EU countries are in the network of permanent real time exchange of information. Greece is currently missing from the list of those countries, but Mr. Wainwright assures that the country is about to be included in the network. According to Rob Wainwright Europol has the largest information network and knowledge to support the Greek police in investigations on terrorism. 

In the interview for the Greek newspaper the British director reports connections and supporters abroad of members of terrorist organizations in Greece. "We are giving a 50-member group of experts in the fight against terrorism at the disposal of the Minister (Michalis Chrisochoidis) and of the Greek police. Our goal is to help the police resolve the problems with the threat of security with which it is fighting," said Rob Wainwright. Number one threat to the world he called to be organized crime.

Mr. Wainwright informed that during his meeting with Greek police a decision was made to intensify cooperation in breaking up the channels of illegal immigration. 

Regarding technology and know-how with which Europol could help Greece's counterterrorism, he says that Europol has modern equipment and methods of work, and also the largest information network, which collects data from 27 countries in the European Union. The European Office can detect links that members of terrorist organizations maintain outside their country and can also provide information for groups that operate locally. 

Commenting on terrorism and organized crime, Mr. Wainwright points out that the relationship between them has developed on a European scale, and this most clearly is shown in the way criminal groups are funded. After the fear of terrorist attacks, the greatest threat to European citizens is organized crime, which every day takes thousands of victims, claims the Briton. Only drug trafficking in Europe has an annual estimated turnover of €100 billion. Most of this money then enters into circulation in legal activities - criminal groups are increasingly finding new ways to legalize their money. 

In his interview with the Greek newspaper Rob Wainwright also pointed out the need to create a platform for cooperation between Eastern Mediterranean countries, which will help combat trafficking of illegal immigrants.