Manama: General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Committee for Combating Extremism, Terrorism Financing, and Money Laundering, oversaw the launch of Bahrain's National Strategy to Combat Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing, and Weapons Proliferation (2025 - 2027) during a ceremony attended by key government officials.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the event was graced by the presence of notable figures including Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy; Lieutenant General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Nuaimi, Minister of Defence Affairs; Dr. Ali bin Fadhl Al Buainain, Attorney General; Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information; and Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Waqf.
Gen. Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah emphasized that the strategy aligns with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's vision for reform and stability, guided by the directives of the Government under His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The strategy is positioned as a key component in fortifying Bahrain's security, economic development, and prosperity.
The Interior Minister acknowledged the strategy as a foundation for nurturing the national economy, extending gratitude to the Minister of Finance and National Economy for his efforts. He also praised the Financial Intelligence National Centre (FINC), led by Shaikha May bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, for its crucial role in financial intelligence and combating money laundering, terrorism financing, and weapons proliferation.
Gen. Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah stressed the significance of vigilance and proactive monitoring, appreciating the contributions of committee members in national, legislative, and legal capacities.
Shaikha May bint Mohammed highlighted the strategy's reflection of Bahrain's dedication to enhancing its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing infrastructure, thereby ensuring the integrity and stability of the financial system. She mentioned the comprehensive preparation of the Second National Risk Assessment (NRA), which involved government agencies, private sector representatives, and key stakeholders, forming the basis of the National Action Plan to address and mitigate identified risks.
Shaikha May bint Mohammed also explained that the strategy outlines ten strategic objectives linked to the NRA, which relevant authorities are expected to implement within the designated timeframe to ensure compliance and protect the financial system.
The event concluded with the official unveiling of the strategy, a screening of a documentary on the national risk assessment, and a ceremony recognizing the committee members for their dedicated efforts in developing the strategy.