Bahrain marks International Anti-corruption Day

Manama, Dec.8 (BNA): Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa delivered the following speech to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day: The Kingdom of Bahrain joints the international community in celebrating the International Anti-Corruption Day that is celebrated by the United Nations General Assembly on December 9. The reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is the main foundations of the Kingdom of Bahrain to reinforce transparency, integrity and fighting corruption. This is clear in many steps and procedures taken by Bahrain, including the constitutional amendments, supporting the legislative authority with accountability tools and the introduction and the development of supervisory authorities, in addition to the approval of the National Anti-corruption Strategy in 2013. The Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 completes the framework to continue fighting corruption, within a comprehensive economic development system. As a continuation of the anti-corruption efforts and the international commitments of Bahrain to implement the United Nations Convention against Corruption, the Kingdom has made progress in the implementation of the agreement. Meanwhile, efforts also continue to document international agreement by welcoming the opening of the branch of the International Anti-corruption Academy in Bahrain. It will reinforce the capability of workers in the supervisory field and strengthen integrity and anti-corruption in the national and regional levels. The General Directorate of Anti-corruption and Economic and Electronic Society has dealt in 2018 with 63 anti-corruption cases, in which 53 cases were referred to the Public Prosecution. It continues its awareness through a series of campaigns to promote integrity and spread the culture of fighting corruption through activities and events that target all segments in society. Some workshops and lectures were held in cooperation with concerned public and private organisations to reinforce the concepts of transparency and integrity. I hail the efforts of anti-corruption authorities and their role in the protection of public money. I would also like to thanks all ministries, organisations and segments of society for their cooperation. Finally, I pray to God to protect Bahrain and continue to be blessed with security and safety within the leadership of His Majesty King. Peace, mercy and blessings of God.