By PAUL O’DONOGHUE, Senior Correspondent
THE Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) has unveiled its strategic priorities for 2025 under the joint leadership of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The group recently met to finalize plans aimed at improving efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in the region.
The joint priorities, approved at MENAFATF’s 39th Plenary in November 2024, will focus on enhancing the group’s role in evaluating member states’ compliance with global standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Key initiatives include:
- Supporting member states during FATF evaluations.
- Strengthening MENAFATF’s governance framework.
- Assisting with the completion of the FATF’s action plan.
- Fostering cooperation with international and regional partners.
- Addressing emerging risks in financial crimes, including terrorist financing and weapons proliferation.
H.E. Samya Abu Shareef, President of the AML Unit of Jordan, said: “We aim to strengthen the group’s vision and priorities, advancing our countries’ efforts to tackle financial crimes.”
UAE’s H.E. Hamed Saif Al-Zaabi, MENAFATF’s Vice President for 2025 and President for 2026, said: “The MENA region is enhancing its capabilities to fight financial crimes, and we are committed to impactful initiatives.”
MENAFATF, which includes 21 member countries and 18 observers, plays a crucial role in strengthening global financial security. Both Jordan and the UAE remain dedicated to advancing MENAFATF’s mission to reduce financial crime risks.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article
If you would like unlimited access to AML Intelligence premium articles, newsletter delivered twice a week, access to our Global Bank Fines and Penalties database, free access to Boardroom Series events and much more, select one of our subscription options and become a subscriber!
