FATF rejects India’s propaganda, keeps Pakistan off the grey list

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has successfully avoided being placed on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) grey list after a meeting of the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG), a subsidiary of FATF.

The decision came after intense deliberations and marks a major victory for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, and compliance with FATF’s requirements. This is especially important in light of persistent efforts by India to undermine Pakistan’s financial standing on the global stage.

The FATF’s decision was announced on Sunday by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who confirmed that the country will not be included in the grey list despite pressure from certain global players. He expressed satisfaction at the decision, adding that Pakistan has fulfilled all the requirements outlined by the FATF. He said that there was no legitimate reason for the country to be placed on any blacklist.

He also said that the FATF’s decision was heavily influenced by the strong support Pakistan received from key international allies, particularly China, Turkey, and Japan. China, in a clear demonstration of solidarity, voiced its unwavering support for Pakistan during the meeting of the ICRG. This was echoed by Turkey and Japan, with both countries endorsing China’s position in favor of granting relief to Pakistan.

In addition to these diplomatic endorsements, Khawaja Asif also pointed out the influence of regional rivalries in the context of Pakistan’s FATF standing. He alleged that India and Israel had been attempting to orchestrate a campaign to have Pakistan placed on the grey list. Despite these efforts, the support of China, Turkey, and Japan helped in preventing Pakistan from facing such a setback.

“This is not just a victory for Pakistan, but a testament to the effectiveness of our diplomatic relations,” Khawaja Asif said, “Despite the conspiracies of India and Israel, Pakistan has emerged victorious and maintained its standing in the global financial community.”

The FATF grey list, which is a list of countries under increased monitoring for deficiencies in countering money laundering and terrorism financing, has long been a source of international scrutiny for Pakistan. However, Pakistan’s fulfillment of FATF’s criteria, including enhanced monitoring of terrorist financing and steps to strengthen its financial system, appears to have alleviated concerns over its global financial practices.

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