EU-led Financial Crime Conference Combats Illicit Art Trafficking in Cairo

Cairo, Egypt, June 14, 2022

Application of AML/CFT Measures in Investigating Art and Antiquities Criminality

A three-day conference focused on the implementation of Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) measures in investigating art and antiquities criminality commenced in Cairo on Tuesday. The conference, organized by the EU Global Facility on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (EU GF-AML/CFT), is held under the auspices of the Egyptian Anti-Money Laundering Unit (AMLU). The high-level event brings together representatives from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, EU member states, and international organizations such as UNODC and Interpol.

Preserving Cultural Heritage and Combating Illicit Trade

Dr. Khaled El-Anany, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage during his opening remarks. He emphasized the Egyptian government’s commitment to protecting and recovering stolen antiquities. Illegal trade in cultural property is a significant challenge Egypt faces, as it is a breeding ground for money laundering activities. El-Anany stated, “The attack and trafficking of these treasures are not only a violation of national pride but also a criminal act that does not fall under the statute of limitations.”

The Connection Between Art Trafficking and Organized Crime

Judge Ahmed Said Khalil, Chairman of the Board of Trustees – AML/CFT Unit of Egypt, addressed the link between the rise of art trafficking and organized crime. Over the last seven years, Egypt has recovered 29,000 antiquities with the assistance of international partners such as France, Germany, the US, and Mexico. Khalil stated, “Combating the illicit trade in antiquities requires the collaboration of various entities and sectors.”

Hands-on Case Study and International Expertise

The conference marks the first of a series of four regional events scheduled through 2024. Attendees will listen to presentations from international experts on money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit art trafficking. They will also participate in a hands-on case study, which explores the techniques used by criminal networks involved in looting or theft of antiquities and art.

Christian Berger, EU Ambassador to Egypt, acknowledged the importance of the conference in the EU’s fight against money laundering and terrorist financing in the art and antiquities markets. Berger stated, “Today’s conference is a crucial step in combating criminality in the art and antiquities sector.” He added, “The EU Global Facility is dedicated to eradicating ML/FT in all its forms. This conference, attended by representatives from 14 countries, will allow us to exchange valuable insights and explore potential solutions to counteract these criminal activities.”

Objectives of the Conference

Strengthen the capacity of both public and private sectors to collaborate, identify problems, and develop solutions.
Raise awareness of the issues.
Increase capabilities to reduce ML/FT penetration.
Protect a country’s heritage.