NAMLC discusses enhancing cooperation with Syria's CASI

The National Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Committee (NAMLC) met with Syria's Central Authority for Supervision and Inspection (CASI) to explore ways of boosting collaboration. NAMLC Secretary Mohammed Sareea Rashid Al Kaabi conversed with CASI Head Amer Al Ali, who was in the region. They addressed various matters aimed at tightening the framework against money laundering, terrorist financing, and corruption.

Both parties considered the division of duties among national bodies ahead of a mutual evaluation, and the coordination needed throughout the evaluation process. They also discussed capacity building and ensuring national staff were sufficiently qualified to bolster the readiness of relevant entities and the efficiency of the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing system.

The meeting touched on NAMLC's role in coordinating with pertinent national agencies to devise and execute policies and activities aimed at combating money laundering linked to corruption. Discussions centered around cooperation schemes with the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) to synchronize national endeavors in executing the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the national strategy for promoting integrity, transparency, and corruption prevention.

The significance of these efforts in preventing and tackling financial crimes, safeguarding the financial system, and nurturing integrity and transparency was underscored.

In terms of international collaboration, the two sides emphasized the value of sharing expertise and learning from international experiences and best practices, in line with NAMLC's priorities and plans. They also examined prospects for future cooperation in training and capacity building. This meeting is part of NAMLC's endeavors to bolster international coordination and cooperation, as well as to assist Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) countries in preparing for the mutual evaluation stage.

The session also provided a platform to share experiences and gain benefit from Qatar's experience in this field, which can serve as a model for others, thereby strengthening efforts to combat corruption and financial crimes across the region.