Baghdad:During a meeting, the Chairman of the Federal Commission of Integrity, Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, and Italian Ambassador to Iraq, Niccolò Fontana, emphasized the dangers of corruption and discussed enhancing cooperation to address this issue.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Dr. Al-Lami highlighted the significance of reinforcing both national and international efforts in promoting integrity and transparency. He advocated for increased collaboration and exchange of expertise among oversight and anti-corruption bodies, particularly under the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which Iraq joined in 2007.

Dr. Al-Lami stressed the importance of activating the Convention’s provisions on corruption prevention, criminalization, law enforcement, mutual legal assistance, and international cooperation, especially in asset recovery and tracking wanted individuals. He expressed interest in strengthening ties with Italy’s anti-corruption institutions and collaborating with the Italian Financial Police. There is also a plan to draft a memorandum of understanding with the Italian National Anti-Corruption Authority.

He urged Italian companies to invest in Iraq, assuring efforts to create a secure investment environment free from corruption, such as extortion and bribery.

Ambassador Fontana acknowledged the global economic impact of corruption and expressed Italy’s readiness to cooperate with Iraq. He emphasized cooperation in developing legislative frameworks, offering legal aid in fund recovery, and enhancing the skills of personnel through training and expertise exchange.