Dubai: Dr. Anwar Mohammad Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Minister of State for Federal National Council (FNC), yesterday chaired a meeting of the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking of which he is the chairman.

The Dubai Police's intiative to set up a centre to monitor human trafficking figured prominently in the meeting. Measures to combat human trafficking were also discussed.

"This initiative comes within the framework of the Interior Ministry's recommendations and the directives of Lieutenant General Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Interior." Dr, Gargash said.

He praised the committment shown by the Dubai Police to foster global and regional cooperation in the fight against human trafficking.

The committee reviewed statistical studies conducted in the second quarter of the year which indicated that 17 human trafficking cases involving 38 suspects were reported in the country.

The committee also decided to postpone a nationwide media campaign on the human trafficking issue to January 2010.

IUt was scheduled to be launched this month.

Dr. Gargash highlighted the importance of the committee's participation in international efforts and events aimed at curbing human trafficking.

"The committee's participation in international anti-human trafficking efforts is in line with its strategy aimed at extending bridges of communication with all international bodies and organisations to activate cooperation and exchange information and expertise," Gargash said.

He stressed the importance of highlighting UAE's efforts and plans for combating human trafficking.

"The UAE has taken a series of firm measures and procedures to fight the crime of human trafficking as this issue tops its agenda," Dr. Gargash said.

The committee reviewed many other topics related to human trafficking.