India is actively seeking G20 consensus on faster extradition and asset recovery for fugitive economic offenders, both domestically and internationally. Union Minister Jitendra Singh discussed these efforts before attending the G20 Ministerial meeting and the final gathering of the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) in Kolkata.
Under India's Presidency, the third and final session of the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) is taking place from August 9-11, 2023, in Kolkata. Over 154 delegates from G20 Members, 10 invitee countries, and international organizations are participating.
Minister Singh highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's nine-point program presented during the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, which emphasized action against fugitive economic offenders. Singh stressed the importance of cooperation in legal processes, including the freezing and repatriation of crime proceeds.
Singh acknowledged the common challenge of economic offenses and the need for international collaboration in extradition and asset recovery. He pointed out that different member states' laws can create obstacles, but a consensus for collective action is emerging. Advanced technologies are also being explored to address this issue.
Minister Singh discussed how various G20 meetings across India have provided a platform to showcase the country's strengths in diverse sectors. These gatherings have demonstrated India's rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity.
India's proactive efforts within the G20 framework reflect its commitment to combat economic offenses and ensure swift extradition and asset recovery. The ongoing discussions hold the potential to foster international cooperation in addressing this global challenge.
