Paris: The head of the Federal Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali al-Lami, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating corruption, asserting that it provides a secure and appealing environment for foreign investment.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Lami made these remarks during a meeting with several French entities in Paris. The meeting was held on the sidelines of his participation in the government delegation accompanying Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi on his visit to France. Discussions with French anti-corruption agencies focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, activating direct coordination channels, and tracking down individuals wanted for corruption and recovering illicitly obtained funds.

The Integrity Commission’s statement highlighted al-Lami’s meetings with representatives from the French Anti-Corruption Agency, the Asset Recovery Agency, and the French Ministry of Justice. These discussions are part of ongoing efforts to expand partnerships and institutional cooperation between Iraq and France. Al-Lami stressed the importance of international collaboration in pursuing those convicted of corruption and in recovering smuggled assets and funds.

Al-Lami pointed out that corruption is a transnational issue, requiring global efforts for effective confrontation. He noted Iraq’s commitment to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in asset recovery and legal assistance. He underscored the need to address practical obstacles hindering these efforts.

The discussions in Paris also focused on framing cooperation between the Federal Integrity Commission and the French Anti-Corruption Agency. This includes exchanging expertise, promoting integrity and transparency, and leveraging the French experience in assessing corruption risks. Building the capacity of Iraqi personnel through specialized training and technology exchange was also discussed.

Al-Lami highlighted the role of the Federal Integrity Commission as an independent body tasked with preventing and combating corruption. He expressed hope for formalizing a bilateral agreement with the French Anti-Corruption Agency, marking a new phase of partnership and cooperation. Both sides affirmed their commitment to continued coordination, enhancing information exchange, and building capacity in financial investigation and asset recovery to effectively prosecute corruption crimes and prevent illicit gains.