The head of the Federal Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, confirmed that combating corruption and protecting public funds require a joint effort from national and international communities, and enhancing cooperation in pursuing those involved in corruption cases and illegal enrichment at the expense of public money, as well as recovering fugitives and smuggled funds.
A statement from the Integrity Commission said that "Al-Lami emphasized during his meeting with the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in Iraq, Stephen Fagan, the importance of activating international cooperation mechanisms and benefiting from the United Nations Convention against Corruption, especially the provisions of Chapter Five regarding the recovery of assets, as the recovery of funds and assets derived from corruption is a fundamental pillar of international efforts to combat it, while noting the importance of removing obstacles to recovery such as dual nationality, differing legislation, and claims of political targeting."
He pointed out the importance of giving significant attention to the preventive aspect in anti-corruption strategies, in line with Chapter Two of the international convention, by developing preventive measures, enhancing integrity, transparency, and accountability, establishing standards of professional conduct, limiting conflicts of interest, and enhancing transparency in the management of public funds and government procurement, in addition to expanding community and media participation in prevention efforts and promoting a culture of integrity.
He indicated that enhancing integrity and combating corruption contribute to creating a safe and attractive investment environment by reinforcing the rule of law, transparency, equal opportunities, and protecting investors and funds from corrupt practices, stressing the importance of supporting government efforts aimed at expanding investment opportunities and enhancing economic cooperation with foreign countries and companies.
For his part, the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in Iraq expressed his country's desire to intensify cooperation with Iraq in various fields, especially as the paths of cooperation between the two countries evolve from military support to expanding economic cooperation, as well as in areas of integrity and anti-corruption, affirming the importance of continued coordination and exchanging experiences in a manner that serves the common interests of both countries.