Africa has the right to return stolen funds that serve the interests of the countries of the North, according to Tunisian Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar.
“It is important that African countries return their looted funds, which ultimately serve the interests and economies of the group of countries of the North. The latter often cite procedures and difficulties as reasons for not sharing the information necessary to achieve the goal of returning these assets,” he was quoted as saying by Tunisian state media.
In this context, the minister pointed to the Global North "preaching" about human rights but lacking real action that would help African economies.
"Some countries of the North should abandon the rhetoric of preaching, advice, and double standards. Such rhetoric outwardly supports the principles of human rights and democracy but does not actively participate in Africa's efforts to achieve true independence and rely on its own resources to fulfill its people's aspirations for development and progress," he said.
Speaking at the Pan-African Conference on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation, Ammar highlighted that combating illicit financial flows in Africa requires political commitment from the international community, countries, and governments.
“It is necessary to effectively combat criminal financial activities, which not only undermine the ability of African countries to mobilize resources for financing sustainable development but also erode their governing institutions, rule of law, judicial systems, and management frameworks by infiltrating the state through corruption and bribery,” the top diplomat concluded.
He urged the international community to demonstrate its support for African development efforts by engaging in the fight against corruption, terrorism, and tax evasion and by facilitating the recovery of stolen funds.
The minister also presented Tunisia's initiatives to strengthen its legislation and mechanisms to combat illicit financial flows, as well as its cooperation with partner countries and international organizations.
The theme of the conference is “Africa’s Tax Agenda in Combating Illicit Financial Flows: From Words to Action.” This theme will explore the significant progress made by African countries in fighting illicit financial flows (IFFs) in the context of changing national, regional, and international tax policies, according to the AU.
It will also highlight the ongoing challenges the continent faces in its efforts to curb IFFs and showcase the commitment of various stakeholders to address these issues. Importantly, the fight against IFFs underscores the determination to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development, as outlined in the vision and aspirations of Africa’s Agenda 2063.