Financial Intelligence National Centre Chief Executive, Shaikha May bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, affirmed, on the occasion of International Financial Intelligence Units Day, marked annually on 9 June, that the occasion embodies decades of dedicated work to protect the global financial system and reflects the shared international will to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and related financial crimes.
She noted that the occasion coincides with the anniversary of the Egmont Group’s establishment in 1995, which has become the leading platform for international cooperation among financial intelligence units and a well-established framework for exchanging information and unifying efforts to confront cross-border financial threats.
She explained that financial crimes have become more complex and diverse amid rapid economic transformations and growing technological advancements. They are no longer limited to traditional forms but have expanded into interconnected digital spaces, requiring constant vigilance, continuous development of analytical tools and institutional capabilities, and enhanced cooperation and coordination at the national, regional, and international levels.
She indicated that financial intelligence units play a pivotal role in analysing information, monitoring suspicious activities, and supporting law enforcement authorities with high-quality outputs that help protect societies and safeguard their economies.
She said that the Kingdom of Bahrain, under the prosperous development of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has achieved qualitative accomplishments in the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing system.
She added that integrated national work, led by His Excellency Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, has contributed to consolidating the Kingdom’s position as a trusted and active partner in the international system, through close coordination among government, regulatory, security and judicial authorities, as well as the financial sector, in line with the highest international standards of compliance, transparency and integrity.
She affirmed that the National Financial Intelligence Centre at the Interior Ministry continues to carry out its national mission efficiently and competently by developing its technical and analytical capabilities, expanding its networks of cooperation with counterparts at home and abroad, and enhancing information exchange with international partners.
This contributes to safeguarding the national economy, protecting the investment environment and strengthening confidence in Bahrain’s financial market, based on the firm belief that the integrity of the financial system is a fundamental pillar of comprehensive national security.
