Title: FBI and Cyprus National Police Sign MoU to Bolster Fight Against Financial Crimes in Cyprus

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, are set to strengthen Cyprus’s capabilities in combatting illicit finance.

Response to President Christodoulides’ Request

In response to a request from former President Nicos Anastasiades of Cyprus, popularly known as Christodoulides, for increased cooperation to tackle financial crimes with ties to Cyprus, the DOJ and FBI will now collaborate directly with ROC law enforcement entities. An MoU is expected to be signed between the FBI and the Cyprus National Police (CNP) in the coming days.

Key Collaborations

Under the terms of the MoU:

• The FBI will partner with the CNP, the Law Office of the Republic (LOR), and the Finance Intelligence Unit (MOKAS) to exchange expertise, resources, and best practices.
• The DOJ will provide expert prosecutorial assistance and share its experience in uncovering financial crimes linked to Cyprus.

Substantial U.S. Investment

Multiple DOJ entities, including OPDAT, Task Force KleptoCapture, and the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), are participating in this collaboration. These entities represent a significant U.S. investment in Cypriot capacity.

Improving the Legal System and Economy

This partnership aims to:

• Strengthen ROC’s efforts to counter money laundering.
• Enhance future prosecutions.
• Fortify the integrity of the Cypriot legal system and economy.

Welcome Development

Both the United States and Cyprus consider this closer cooperation a positive development. They are optimistic that substantial progress will be achieved.

• The stronger partnership between the American and Cypriot justice systems is seen as a major triumph in the fight against financial crimes with ties to Cyprus.