Central Bank Governors of MENAFATF members met for the first time, coinciding with the start of the third round of mutual evaluations of AML/CFT/PF in the region, and providing support to MENAFATF and its members. The meeting was attended by FATF President Elisa Medrazo; MENAFATF President Samia Abu Sharif of Jordan; MENAFATF Vice President Hamed Al Zaabi of UAE; and MENAFATF Executive Secretary Suliman Aljabrin. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 49th Council of Governors of Arab Central Banks and Monetary Authorities, held on September 17, organized by the Arab Monetary Fund and generously hosted by the Central Bank of Tunisia.

The meeting was chaired by Central Bank of Jordan Governor, Chair of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Dr Adel Al Sharkas, as part of the Jordan's Presidency of MENAFATF, who stressed the importance of building a robust AML/CFT system in the region and providing adequate financial and human resources for this purpose, given the close link between the strength and soundness of financial and economic stability in any country, stimulating foreign investment, and combating financial crime, which impacts general tax revenues, capital flows, foreign investment, and banking relations.

MENAFATF President Ms Abou Sharif highlighted the importance of constructive cooperation with the FATF, regional groups, and the global network, given the key roles these groups play in complementing those of other relevant international institutions and organizations, such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.

FATF President Ms. Madrazo stressed the importance of such high-level meetings in supporting the next phase and the close and complementary engagement of regional groups, alongside FATF's key role in setting international standards. She commended the joint work and important projects undertaken by MENAFATF with regional groups, and highlighted the importance of preparing for the next round, which focuses on demonstrating the effectiveness of AML/CFT/PF systems.

MENAFATF Executive Secretary Mr. Suliman Aljabrin presented the timeline and procedures for the third round of mutual evaluation and the most important recommendations for countries to prepare for the evaluation process.

The meeting recommendations included MENAFATF members providing adequate support at the national level to ensure early preparation for the mutual evaluations, develop and build capacity/knowledge at the national level, the technical application of the FATF methodology and procedures, and hold such a meeting periodically every two years to keep Governors up to date with MENAFATF latest developments and activities.

This meeting came in line with joint Jordan-UAE Presidency priorities for 2025–2026, and MENAFATF action plan to increase effectiveness.