UAE’s Proactive Crime-Fighting Stance Resonates Globally, Says MENAFATF Leader
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force Executive Secretary commends the Emirates' comprehensive approach to combating financial crime, emphasising its regional and international significance.
The United Arab Emirates’ resolute commitment to combating crime and financial crime extends far beyond its borders, casting a transformative influence across the region and the global financial system, according to Sulaiman Al Jabrin, Executive Secretary of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF).
Speaking during his participation in the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi, Mr Al Jabrin underscored how the Emirates’ status as a global financial hub amplifies the impact of its proactive security measures. The UAE’s presidency of MENAFATF is characterised by considerable ambition, encompassing multiple technical and strategic priorities that reflect sophisticated governance.
These priorities include conducting comprehensive regional assessments of risks, challenges and threats; strengthening cooperation with other regional groups and nations; and maintaining elevated engagement with member states to ensure financial crime prevention reaches the highest governmental levels. The Executive Secretary emphasised that international cooperation, communication and coordination represent fundamental objectives for combating financial crime effectively.
Mr Al Jabrin expressed particular appreciation for the UAE’s initiative in hosting the congress, which convenes authorities from around the world devoted to crime prevention. The gathering enables detailed examination of crime in its multifaceted forms—whether financial or otherwise—in technical discussions that yield concrete, implementable recommendations rather than broad aspirational statements.
The congress provides invaluable opportunity for experts from diverse nations to examine region-specific challenges and formulate tailored solutions. This collaborative exchange of experience, expertise and challenges facilitates identification of best practices applicable across jurisdictions, fostering a more cohesive global response to evolving criminal threats.
The Executive Secretary particularly commended the UAE’s targeted efforts against money laundering, acknowledging the tangible results demonstrating operational effectiveness in criminal prosecution, asset recovery and tracing illicit funds. He highlighted the Emirates’ proactive anticipation of emerging challenges, particularly those related to technological innovation and virtual assets—areas where forward-thinking policy proves essential.
Source: WAM