Iraq and Oman Sign MoU to Enhance Bilateral Anti-Corruption Cooperation in Doha

The Iraqi Federal Integrity Commission and Oman's State Audit Institution signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday to enhance bilateral cooperation in combating corruption. The agreement was finalized between Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, Head of the Iraqi Federal Integrity Commission, and Sheikh Ghosn bin Hilal Al-Alawi, Head of Oman's State Audit Institution. The Commission announced this step reinforces Arab and regional efforts against corruption. The signing took place in Doha, Qatar, on the sidelines of the sixth session of the Conference of States Parties to the Arab Anti-Corruption Convention. The MoU acknowledges both nations' understanding of corruption's severe threats to societal security and stability, and its undermining of institutions, democratic systems, and justice. This initiative reflects their desire to develop and coordinate efforts to prevent corruption and mitigate its impact. It emphasizes fostering bilateral cooperation and establishing joint Arab endeavors, adhering to national legislation in both countries. Cooperation areas include exchanging expertise and information on anti-corruption strategies and policies, sharing insights and studies on prevention measures, and exchanging experiences in handling reports and complaints, including necessary mechanisms. The memorandum also stipulates following up on legal assistance requests and international asset recovery cases with national authorities in both countries until resolution. It further covers sharing expertise in corruption prevention, notably financial disclosure systems, avoiding conflicts of interest, and strengthening integrity and transparency. Both sides stressed the importance of facilitating visits, training courses, and workshops. They also agreed to exchange scientific research and studies, and promote their publication in academic journals, to bolster common goals between Iraq and Oman.