Financial Crime World

Here is the rewritten article in markdown format:

Moldova Takes Step Towards Effective Anti-Money Laundering Measures

Combating Organized Crime and Corruption

Government representatives, legal experts, civil society members, and development partners gathered in Chisinau to discuss improving Moldova’s framework for recovering and managing confiscated assets. The event focused on optimizing processes for identifying, tracing, confiscating, and managing illegally acquired assets, highlighting the authorities’ commitment to dismantling criminal networks.

Joint Project between European Union and Council of Europe

The discussion is part of a joint project titled “Enhancing the anti-money laundering and asset recovery regime in the Republic of Moldova,” which aims to support Moldova’s efforts in combating economic crime. This project is one of six initiatives under the Partnership for Good Governance program, designed to counter corruption and money laundering in Eastern Partnership countries.

Objectives

The overall objective of the project is to enhance the effectiveness of measures against money laundering and terrorist financing, as well as improve the capacity of relevant institutions to recover illicit assets. To achieve this goal, Moldovan authorities will implement robust measures against money laundering and terrorist financing, while also enhancing practices for tracing, recovering, and disposing of criminal assets.

Stakeholders

The project involves cooperation with several key stakeholders, including:

  • General Prosecutor’s Office
  • Ministry of Internal Affairs
  • Ministry of Finance
  • Office for Prevention and Combatting Money Laundering
  • National Anticorruption Centre (Asset Recovery Office)
  • National Bank of Moldova
  • Public Services Agency
  • National Commission for the Financial Market
  • Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs)
  • Financial institutions
  • Civil society
  • General public

Budget and Funding

The project is aligned with existing national strategies and action plans, as well as Council of Europe Action Plans for Moldova. The total budget for the project is EUR 510,000, with 80% co-funded by the European Union and 20% by the Council of Europe.

Partnership for Good Governance Program

The Partnership for Good Governance program aims to strengthen good governance in Eastern Partnership countries by providing tailor-made support to bring their legislation and practice closer to European standards in areas such as human rights, rule of law, and democracy.