TEHRAN – Iran and Spain have agreed to strengthen cooperation in combating money laundering, with Madrid set to host the next meeting between Iran and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Antonio Sánchez Benedito Gaspar, Spain’s ambassador to Iran, met with Hadi Khani, deputy economy minister and head of Iran’s Financial Intelligence Unit, to discuss the exchange of experience and expertise between the two countries.

Khani said Iran’s actions against money laundering and related crimes go beyond international recommendations and standards.

He added that Tehran is determined to highlight its progress despite U.S. sanctions and regional risks.

Iran’s top anti-money laundering council asked the Spanish envoy to help persuade Madrid and other European governments to support Iran in resolving its challenges with FATF.

The Spanish ambassador welcomed Iran’s proposals, praised the FIU’s efforts, and pledged to work toward boosting bilateral cooperation in anti-money laundering initiatives.

Spain, the eurozone’s fourth-largest economy and the world’s fifteenth, is a full FATF member and will host the upcoming session with Iran.

EF/MA