Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), took part in the 9th meeting of the Ministerial Committee focused on anti-corruption efforts in the GCC countries.
Chaired by Shaikh Ghosn bin Hilal Al Alawi, the Omani Chairman of the State Audit Institution and current session leader, the meeting included members of the Committee of Ministers dedicated to combating corruption in the GCC countries.
Albudaiwi underscored the commitment of the GCC leaders to empower governmental bodies to enhance governance, transparency, accountability, integrity, and the fight against corruption. This would be achieved through the exchange of expertise and visits among specialists from various GCC agencies.
He stressed the significance of building upon the agreements reached within the G20 framework and the Riyadh Initiative, which pertain to cooperation in investigating transnational corruption cases and prosecuting those responsible. Corruption's adverse effects on economic development and growth were highlighted as a primary concern.
Albudaiwi emphasized that the global importance of combatting corruption has grown significantly in recent years. This is due to the increasingly detrimental impact of corruption on a nation's efforts to advance its economy. Corruption also poses serious cross-border social and political challenges that threaten the regional and international stability, security, and standing of nations.
He acknowledged the Ministerial Committee's role in strengthening cooperation and integration among the GCC countries in safeguarding integrity and fighting corruption. The Committee has achieved this through the adoption of relevant laws and regulations, including the recent approval of the public fund system.
The Secretary General stressed the necessity of transparent policies and decisive actions in light of the severe threat that corruption poses to societies. Corruption can lead to the erosion of state institutions and have a negative impact on economies.
He expressed pride in the transparent and resolute steps taken by the GCC countries in addressing corruption and holding wrongdoers accountable, which has positioned them prominently in regional and global anti-corruption rankings.