"Just two weeks before we launched the airline in March, we were advised by the French authorities that there would be a short delay of a couple of weeks before a customs and immigration port of entry was in place at Paris Pontoise, " he said.

BBC: Let-410 aircraft

Agencies participating in the drill also included the FBI, Customs and Border Patrol, the Port of Houston Authority and local police.

NPR: Houston Drill Tests Agencies' Preparedness

In the past, and during the time of sanctions, the lack of a proper port, customs and other facilities meant that smuggling was widespread.

BBC: Bangladesh bids to boost trade with Burma

And it has an edge: it embraced new technology early on, being one of the first to computerize customs clearance and other port operations.

CNN: BUSINESS FORECAST '96

It is also necessary to be Mexican by birth to discharge the position of captain of the port and all services of practique and airport commandant, as well as all functions of customs agent in the Republic.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Mexico's Glass House

The customs duties leviable on goods destined for the interior shall be collected at the port of entry and handed over to the administration of the area of destination.

BBC: Map detailing the Sykes-Picot agreement

Having reasserted control over Ajaria, Mr Saakashvili can now get his hands on its port, which handles 200, 000 barrels of oil per day, and a busy customs post on the border with Turkey.

ECONOMIST: The comic opera ends | The