Financial Crime World

International Cooperation in AML/CFT: Turkey’s Efforts to Combat Corruption and Terrorism Financing

Overview of International Cooperation

Turkey has been actively working with foreign countries and institutions to combat corruption and terrorism financing through Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) efforts. This cooperation is facilitated by various international organizations, including the Egmont Group, and relies on domestic legislation and principles.

Role of Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK)

The MASAK plays a crucial role in exchanging information with foreign counterpart Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs). This enables Turkey to share intelligence and coordinate efforts with other countries to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.

State Supervisory Council (SSC) Involvement

The SSC is responsible for auditing and supervising public institutions. When receiving a request from a foreign state or the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), the SSC performs necessary studies and contributes topics within its scope. This involvement ensures that Turkey complies with international commitments and domestic legislation.

Protection of EU Funds

Turkey has committed to protecting EU funds within its borders. The SSC acts as the AFCOS evaluating all investigation requests received from the Undersecretariat of Treasury (NAO) or other relevant sources. If a case requires an investigation, the Turkish AFCOS conducts its own examination or ensures that the relevant public bodies investigate the allegations.

Steps for International Cooperation

To facilitate international cooperation in administrative proceedings related to corruption, foreign states should send requests through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while OLAF sends official letters via email. In cases where an “on-the-spot check” is planned, OLAF informs the SSC, and the head of the SSC assigns auditors to join and assist OLAF investigators on their mission.

Steps for Seeking Assistance from Turkey

If a foreign state seeks assistance from Turkey, they should follow these steps:

  • Send a request regarding the mission of the SSC through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • The SSS performs necessary studies and contributes topics within its scope.
  • If OLAF requests information or documents based on an investigation related to allegations of irregularity in the spending of EU funds, the SSC meets these requests directly in accordance with international commitments and domestic legislation.
  • If OLAF plans an “on-the-spot check,” it informs the SSC, and the head of the SSC assigns auditors to join and assist OLAF investigators on their mission.

Contact Information for Central Authority in Turkey

The contact information for the Central Authority in Turkey is as follows: