The Home Office has announced the UK has signed an agreement with Panama to tackle serious and organised crime.
Security Minister Ben Wallace met the Deputy Minister for Public Security in Panama, Jonattan Del Rosario, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will ensure closer co-operation in this area.
The agreement makes clear that the UK and Panama are committed to working together on serious and organised crime, with the two nations sharing information and best practice on issues such as intelligence collection, development and analysis, money laundering, port security and criminal justice.
Security Minister Ben Wallace said:
“I am delighted that we have laid the foundations for a strong partnership with such an important country in the region.
“There are strong benefits for both countries in working together – and I believe this MOU will aid our joint fight against drug smugglers, money launderers and serious criminals.
“Serious and organised crime costs the UK £24 billion a year and the UK has committed to taking a leading role to tackle it – it was a great opportunity to meet with Deputy Minister Jonattan Del Rosario and to explore future opportunities for both our countries.
“In addition to this MOU, the Criminal Finances Bill – which is currently going through Parliament – will significantly improve the UK’s ability to tackle money laundering and corruption, recover the proceeds of crime and counter terrorist financing.”
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