Rabat: The 42nd Plenary Meeting of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) kicked off on Monday in Rabat, with the participation of heads of delegations from member states, as well as experts and observers from countries and regional and international organizations.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the meeting, which runs through May 13, constitutes a regional event aimed at coordinating international and regional efforts to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and the proliferation of weapons, as well as protecting the region’s economic and financial systems from risks linked to these crimes. This event was organized through a joint statement issued by the Head of Government’s Department and the National Financial Intelligence Authority (ANRF).

The meeting opened with remarks by Minister of Economy and Finance Nadia Fettah and Chairman of the Group and Secretary-General of the United Arab Emirates’ National Committee for Combating Money Laundering, Hamid Saif Al Zaabi. On this occasion, they highlighted the importance of coordinating regional efforts to combat financial crimes and illicit financing, while underscoring the need for the effective implementation of FATF standards based on the risk-based approach.

In this context, Fettah reaffirmed the Kingdom of Morocco’s commitment to strengthening its national framework for combating money laundering and terrorism financing, in line with international standards, to protect the national financial system against emerging risks. Al Zaabi explained that the UAE presidency of the Group for 2026 aims to strengthen MENAFATF’s position internationally and intensify coordination with global partners.

Both officials urged member states to enhance the exchange of expertise and develop mechanisms to combat emerging financial crimes, to ensure the stability and sustainability of the region’s financial system.