Azerbaijan hosts OIC anti-corruption high-level meeting in Baku

President Ilham Aliyev addressed participants at the third high-level meeting of heads of anti-corruption agencies from member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Baku.

During his address, President Aliyev characterized corruption as a crime that undermines public trust in state institutions, social justice, fair competition, and economic development. He emphasized that the transnational nature of these crimes necessitates coordinated action at both national and international levels. He highlighted the importance of the 'Mecca Al-Mukarramah Convention on Law Enforcement Cooperation against Corruption' as a strategic document for creating a unified legal platform among OIC members.

Aliyev also noted that during the nearly 30-year occupation of Azerbaijani territories, natural resources and mineral deposits were illegally exploited by foreign entities, causing significant ecological damage. He stated that the substantial revenues gained from these crimes were laundered through international financial channels. To combat these issues, Azerbaijan is focusing on legislative improvements, increasing transparency and accountability in state administration, digitizing public services, and strengthening public oversight.