The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Global Network Secretariat Retreat (GNSR) commenced on April 7, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Organized by the UAE National Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting Financing of Terrorism and Financing of Illegal Organizations Committee, this inaugural global event spanned three days and brought together senior officials from the nine FATF-Style Regional Bodies (FSRBs) along with the FATF Secretariat.
The Objectives and Agenda
The retreat aspires to ameliorate cooperation among international network secretariats, focusing on pivotal areas such as typologies, risk assessments, and training programs. Supported by the current Mexican presidency of the FATF, the event aims to reinforce the role of regional bodies in shaping global policies and promoting congeniality across international networks.
UAE’s Commitment to Financial Security
Hosting the GNSR highlights the UAE’s dedication to strengthening global financial security and cultivating international cooperation in curbing financial crimes. Sergey Teterukov, executive secretary of the Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG), underscored that the meetings in Abu Dhabi represent a significant landmark in upgrading collaboration among global network members. He stated that the event offers a unique chance to exchange ideas and address common shortcomings following the new round of mutual evaluations.
UAE’s Role in the Global Network
Teterukov accentuated the UAE’s active role in enhancing the effectiveness of the Global Network to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. This commitment is reflected in strategic measures, including the UAE’s recent accession as an observer to the EAG. He also pointed out that the UAE serves as an advanced model in developing regulatory and legislative frameworks in this domain, highlighting the importance of regular and continuous joint efforts with the UAE as part of regional and global initiatives to improve the efficiency of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems.
The GNSR in Abu Dhabi marks a crucial step in international efforts to mitigate financial crimes. By facilitating dialogue and partnerships among key stakeholders, the retreat aims to strengthen the global framework for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, with the UAE playing a pivotal role in these initiatives.
