«فاتف» بعد إعلان وضع لبنان على «القائمة الرمادية»: سيستمر في تنفيذ الإصلاحات

Lebanon Remains Committed to Financial Reforms Despite Grey Listing

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) announced on Friday that Lebanon has been placed on its "grey list" of countries under enhanced monitoring, despite pleas from Lebanese officials for leniency.

While acknowledging Lebanon's progress in implementing several recommended measures, FATF affirmed that the country will continue to implement financial reforms. In a statement, FATF highlighted Lebanon's commitment to collaborate with the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, stating:

"In October 2024, Lebanon made a high-level political commitment to work with the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force to combat money laundering and terrorist financing to strengthen the effectiveness of its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism system despite the difficult social, economic and security situation in the country."

FATF further outlined Lebanon's progress since the mutual evaluation mechanism was adopted in May 2023, emphasizing the country's efforts in implementing several recommended measures. These efforts included:

• Implementing measures across its financial sector, including a circular issued to banks and financial institutions mandating the establishment of a dedicated unit for combating crimes related to bribery, corruption, and instructions regarding politically exposed persons.
• Taking action against unauthorized financial activity.

FATF concluded that Lebanon will continue working with the organization to implement its action plan.

Key Takeaways:

• Despite being placed on the "grey list", Lebanon remains committed to implementing the necessary financial reforms.
• The country has made significant progress in implementing FATF's recommendations.
• Lebanon's commitment to combat money laundering and terrorist financing remains strong, even amidst challenging circumstances.
• The country will continue to work with FATF to fully implement its action plan.