Finance Minister chairs meeting to review activities of the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Committee.

In a significant meeting held today in the temporary capital of Aden, Yemen’s Finance Minister, Salem bin Bureik, convened with key officials to discuss the country’s ongoing efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. The meeting included Hani Wahab, the Deputy Minister of Finance and head of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing, and Catherine Colonna, the French Ambassador to Yemen.

Commitment to International Treaties

During the meeting, participants reaffirmed Yemen’s commitment to international treaties aimed at combating money laundering and terrorism financing. They emphasized the importance of information exchange with relevant authorities. The committee reviewed its activities, identified challenges, and outlined its priorities and technical needs. This discussion coincided with the recent U.S. designation of the Iran-backed Houthi militia as a “Foreign Terrorist Organization.”

Raising Awareness and Strengthening Collaboration

The meeting highlighted the committee’s role in educating local organizations about anti-money laundering practices and compliance units. It also addressed ongoing projects and agreements, including the National Risk Strategy and the committee’s collaboration with the International Monetary Fund to amend anti-money laundering legislation. Additionally, the discussion covered the judiciary’s role and other official entities involved in combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

Government Support for Anti-Money Laundering Initiatives

Minister bin Bureik underscored the critical role of the National Committee in fighting money laundering and terrorism financing. He expressed the government’s commitment to supporting the committee’s efforts to fulfill its responsibilities effectively. The goal is to eliminate the sources of terrorism financing and ensure that financial operations occur through legitimate channels, thereby curbing money laundering activities.

Enhancing Oversight and International Cooperation

Deputy Minister Wahab presented the committee’s roles and activities, emphasizing collaboration with national, regional, and international entities. This cooperation aims to intensify oversight and verify any suspicious financial activities. He also highlighted the committee’s achievements during Yemen’s presidency of the Financial Action Task Force for the Middle East and North Africa.

Tour of the National Committee’s Facilities

Following the meeting, Minister bin Bureik and Ambassador Colonna toured the various departments of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering. They received updates from the committee’s leadership on the progress and efforts being made to continue achieving milestones in the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.

This meeting marks a crucial step in Yemen’s ongoing battle against financial crimes, reinforcing the government’s dedication to international standards and cooperation in this vital area.

To follow the news in Arabic