U.S. Customs promotes Thomson to head international affairs

U.S. Customs promotes Thomson to head international affairs

   U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Robert Bonner named Keith Thomson assistant commissioner for the Office of International Affairs. Thomson, who headed the Office of Trade Relations since October, assumes his new post immediately.

   Michael Schmitz, who was the acting commissioner of international affairs, will resume his position as assistant commissioner for the Office Regulations and Rulings. Thomson’s deputy, Eula Walden, will sere as acting director for trade relations until a new director is appointed.

   The Office of International Affairs is responsible for managing programs such as the Container Security Initiative and the Export Security Program, as well as providing antiterrorism, customs and immigration training to other foreign governments and supporting Customs' participation in global forums like the World Customs Organization.

   Thomson will manage a budget of more than $180 million and oversee more than 1,000 personnel.