Baghdad: The Head of the Federal Commission of Integrity, Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, has called for robust international efforts to tackle corruption and to prevent corrupt individuals from finding safe havens for themselves and their illicit gains.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a meeting at the Commission’s headquarters with Christopher Dilworth, Political Counselor at the US Embassy, Al-Lami highlighted the concerted efforts by the Iraqi state’s legislative, executive, and judicial authorities to combat corruption. He mentioned ongoing coordination with the Parliamentary Integrity Committee to finalize legal frameworks designed to fight corruption.

Al-Lami pointed out that anti-corruption measures have been integrated into the Iraqi government’s ministerial program, indicating a strong official commitment to tackling the issue. He underscored the need for international cooperation in areas such as legal assistance, extradition of wanted individuals, recovery of smuggled assets, and the exchange of expertise, all within the context of the United Nations Convention against Corruption. Al-Lami expressed hope that collaboration among States Parties would result in effective deterrent measures against those evading justice.

Christopher Dilworth, the Political Counselor at the US Embassy, conveyed the embassy’s willingness to work with Iraqi oversight bodies and align efforts to fight corruption, which he identified as a significant challenge impacting the economy and investment. Dilworth also remarked on Iraq’s recovery of stability and progress following the defeat of terrorism, recognizing the development in various sectors.